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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

Best (And Worst) Time To Visit Iceland (Month By Month!)

February 19, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Deciding on the best time to visit Iceland for your needs is one of the most important parts of planning an Iceland trip. If you are unsure where to start, we have made it super easy for you by explaining what you can expect month by month.

This complete guide to the months and seasons of Iceland will fully prepare you for your trip. All of the most common questions are answered, such as when to see special things like the Northern Lights, lupine flowers, and puffins.

Planning your trip to Iceland last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Iceland in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are my top picks for your trip :

Top Experiences And Tours In Iceland:

• Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely to sell out!)
• Silfra Snorkeling Tour (Includes photos + only small group)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip (Our pick!)
• Whale Watching In Reykjavik (On a luxury yacht)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Great to go with a local)
• Ice Cave Tour And Glacier Hike (Likely to sell out)

Tickets You MUST book in advance:

• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer (Skip the line!)
• Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket (Includes 7-step spa ritual)
• Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket With Drink (Likely to sell out!)

Top picks for places to stay in Iceland:

• Hotel South Coast (Great central location)
• Grandi Reykjavik (Includes free breakfast)
• Hotel Kria (Close to black sand beach)
• Hotel Skaftafell (Mid-range price)

Iceland is amazing , but it is also a country that must be taken seriously. Winter in Iceland is beautiful, but you must plan accordingly if that is when you are planning to visit. However, even summer has its drawbacks.

Not to worry, we have all the information you need to check off all of your Iceland dreams. The best months to visit Iceland might depend a little bit on the season, but it depends the most on you!

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and sharing your photos and asking for tips and tricks.

High and Low Seasons for Visiting Iceland

Like any popular tourist destination, Iceland has an “on” season and an “off” season. These times are otherwise referred to as high and low seasons (with the in-betweens being called shoulders).

The high season is when the majority of the tourists come to visit. This is generally due to the nice weather and ease of access. This is when most people plan their Iceland itinerary !

But just because the weather is colder in the low season does not mean you should not visit! Many people enjoy the low and shoulder seasons more because there are fewer crowds and it is cheaper, making it the best time to travel to Iceland for a lot of people.

You might be surprised to learn that there are indoor and outdoor activities for all of the seasons. Iceland is beautiful inside and out no matter when you visit.

High Season: June-August

Summer, summer, summer! This is the high season in Iceland for the obvious reasons: weather and temperature. It is undeniably the best weather to visit Iceland with much more sun and higher temperatures.

However, this is also by far the most expensive time to visit Iceland. Airfare, hotel fees, food prices–everything costs a pretty penny during the summer.

Not to mention the crowds. The high season is high season because it is when most people visit Iceland.

While the cost and the crowds are pretty big negatives, the high season has phenomenal positives as well. Especially if you are wanting to go to Iceland for the great outdoors. Most roads will be open during this time as well.

At the end of the day, it is all about your priorities. If weather and being able to spend the maximum time outside every day is your top priority, you are going to want to come to Iceland during the high season.

Shoulder Season: Sept-Oct & April-May

Shoulder seasons are the traveling industry’s best-kept secret. Okay, so it is not super-secret, but it still is not something people talk about as much as they should.

We hear about the high and low seasons all the time, but not so much about the shoulder seasons. They are the very beginning and the very ending of the classic tourism season.

This means that there are still more people than in the low season, but not the huge crowds of the high season. Prices are a little higher too, but still generally reasonable.

The best part of the shoulder season is that the weather is still reasonable. It may not be as great as the high season, but still totally tolerable!

Low Season: November-March

The low season in Iceland is during the typical winter months. For a country named after ice, Iceland’s winters are not that bad!

While there are some road closures, the country is still quite explorable and traversable during the cold months. And if you are coming to see the Northern Lights, this is the time to do it!

This is also the time to come if you are on a serious budget and need to take advantage of the low season prices. Traveling does not have to empty out your bank account.

The lack of crowds makes it the best season to visit Iceland on a budget! There are some trade-offs for coming during the off-season in Iceland, but there are some definite benefits too. This is actually our favorite time to go!

As we said above, the best time to visit Iceland depends on your Iceland priorities!

Visit Iceland in Summer if You:

-Love the idea of 24-hour sunshine.  Ah, the midnight sun–you are not alone if this is on your bucket list ! If you have dreamt of Iceland’s 24-hour daylight, the summer might be the best time for you to visit.

-Are enamored with the brilliant green of summer.  Iceland starts greening back up in the spring, but summer is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to see green everywhere.

The iconic lupine flowers bloom in June and July as well, creating swatches of purple across the landscape. If you want to photograph these flowers make sure to time your trip right.

-Want the best chance to spot whales. Whale watching is a popular tour in Iceland. The magnificent beasts can be spotted offshore from April through October, but the peak time to see them is in the summer.

In summer, more species are in the area and boat tours are less likely to get canceled because of weather.

-Plan on camping. Since the weather is calmer and less unpredictable during the summer, camping in Iceland is a better option for this season. You will have the least rainfall and less wind. This is especially good if you are tent camping.

-Are not bothered by crowds. Everyone loves the gorgeous, summer Iceland scenery. And we mean everyone . Iceland is a super crowded place in summer so keep that in mind.

If you hate crowds, you can still do alright coming in the summer. You will just want to visit the less popular places in the country. They may be less popular, but Iceland is amazing no matter where you go.

-Are totally invested in the traditional sense (read: financially).  If you are not concerned about how much your trip to Iceland is going to cost, that saves you a lot of seasonal concerns.

Iceland is stunning in the summer, and we cannot blame you for wanting to visit when everything is so vibrant.

Just keep in mind that it is already expensive to travel to Iceland, let alone during the summer. During the high season, top tourist destinations and locations charge top dollar for everything.

Visit Iceland in Winter if You:

-Want to spot the Northern Lights.  You can see the Northern Lights in the fall, but there is a caveat. You will have to stay up until around 2 am. If staying up all night is not your vibe, then winter is the best time to go to Iceland to see the Northern Lights!

In winter, there are not many daylight hours. The sun is only up from around 11 am to 3 pm. However, the increased darkness means a better chance of spotting the Northern Lights. Around midnight is the best time to spot them, but earlier or later is possible too.

-Want to visit an ice cave. The incredibly-formed ice caves are some of the best natural features in Iceland and can only be visited in the winter. Tours are lead from November to March.

-Love a good winter wonderland.  There is just something magical about the way snow completely changes Iceland’s landscape. Many people absolutely love coming to Iceland during this time of year because of this.

If you love the beauty of winter, then it is the best time to visit Iceland! Keep in mind that snow has drawbacks since some roads will be closed.

-Want to stand out from the crowd.  While a lot of people enjoy Iceland in the winter, the number of people who go is nothing compared to the summer.

If you are looking to do something a little different and unique, winter just might be the best time for your visit to Iceland. It certainly is not a bad time!

Visit Iceland in Fall if You:

-Do not like crowds but still want to see the Northern Lights.  Even though this is the off-season, it is prime viewing time for the Northern Lights.

This is because the weather is so nice! You do not have to freeze to see the Northern Lights, just come during the fall.

An extra bonus is that there are really not very many tourists during this time. Fall is the best time of the year to visit Iceland if you want to miss the crowds and do not mind coming when it is a little colder.

-Love fall colors. Iceland is not a country that is typically praised for its fall foliage, mostly because there are not many trees. However, what trees there are turn golden along with the grasses, to create a beautiful landscape.

-Want to experience the Iceland Airwaves music festival.  If you have not already heard about it then you might not know what a big deal the Iceland Airwaves music festival is. But if you have heard of it then you already know that it is a must-see!

It is a super popular music festival that happens each fall in Iceland. Usually, it is held sometime in November, but do an internet search to find the exact date.

If you love music, this festival is a great addition to your Iceland plans! Fall is the best time to go to Iceland to check it out!

Visit Iceland in Spring if You:

-Love puffins!   Spring is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to see puffins . These adorable birds start arriving around April for their yearly nesting.

Puffins are some of the cutest birds out there, and you can find them all over! If you are coming to catch sight of or photograph them, just check in advance to make sure they will be in the area where you are going.

-Want to road trip without snow.  As we said above, some of the roads can close in the winter. Spring is the best time to come to Iceland for better weather and open roads. That melting snow also helps to make the waterfalls flow stronger.

Not to mention that the world is coming back to life in the most beautiful way! There is something about the colorful bursts of color against the gray of winter that makes spring like no other season.

Best Time to See Northern Lights in Iceland

If you are interested in the Northern Lights, you are interested in Iceland! While there are many different places to see the Northern Lights in the world, Iceland is hard to beat.

Especially considering that there are places where you can watch them from a hot tub! The Northern Lights In Iceland are a huge draw, and if they are the reason you are coming you are not alone!

If you are wondering what is the best month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, there are a few choices. It is possible to see the Northern Lights any month between the end of September and the end of March.

Just like the sun is out all night during summer, the nights are very long in the winter. The closer to mid-winter you visit, the longer the night and thus the higher chance of seeing the lights.

You definitely will not be able to see them during the summer! Winter is when you should book your Iceland trip if the Northern Lights are a priority.

Cheapest Time to Visit Iceland

Unfortunately, Iceland is one of the more expensive countries to visit. We have gone over and over because we believe the experience is worth the money .

However, there are things you can do to make your trip much less expensive. One of those things is visiting during the Iceland off-season.

If it is your goal to do Iceland without dumping a ton of cash, we absolutely recommend the shoulder seasons or winter. Visiting right before or right after the high season of summer can save you a lot of money.

If saving money is a high priority, winter is absolutely the best time to visit Iceland. And pro tip: use grocery stores to cut down on costs even more!

Iceland Weather Breakdown by Month

So far we have been referring to entire seasons, but we know that is kind of broad. Especially when you are planning the trip of a lifetime!

That is why we are going to break everything about Iceland Weather down month by month . This way you can know exactly what to expect.

After all, sometimes the best time to visit Iceland is simply when it best fits into your life. Whenever you make the trip, our month-by-month breakdown will help you make the most of it.

Iceland Weather in January

Happy New Year! January is a great time to visit Iceland. During this time of year you will find highs of about 36 ° F and lows of about 27 ° F.

Is that warmer than you expected? For a country named after ice, Iceland’s winters are actually quite moderate when compared with a lot of other places in the world!

That being said, January in Iceland is the coldest and windiest month. You will want to bring warm clothing and dress appropriately! Expect lots of snow and ice.

Iceland Weather in February

Honestly, the temperatures do not change much in February. What does change is the hours of daylight!

At the beginning of January, you will only get about 4 hours of daylight a day. By the end of February, this increases to about 10 hours.

February is a great month to come because there is more daylight but the crowds and costs are still at a minimum. Check out our post on things to know before you visit Iceland in February!

Iceland Weather in March

March continues with the increase in daylight hours, with about 13 hours of sunshine a day by the end of the month.

Winter weather continues in Iceland in March , although it starts sticking more to the mountaintops and less to the streets. As with most places, the weather is also better in southern Iceland than in northern Iceland.

However, it is still cold pretty much everywhere. We are getting closer to spring, but you would not really know it yet. The temperatures are still averaging between 27 ° F and 36 ° F.

Iceland Weather in April

The weather finally begins to make a bit of a change in April. Temperatures range between 32 ° F and 41 ° F during this warmer month.

What is more, there is a lot less snow! Spring starts to show its face about this time, with the country beginning to green back up again. Migratory birds start to return, including puffins.

We are also looking at around 17 hours of daylight in April as we officially move out of the low season and into the shoulder season. Don’t forget to check out this post about visiting Iceland in April!

Iceland Weather in May

May is seriously one of the best times to visit Iceland! Especially if you love the sun! The days have 20 hours or more of sunlight. It is also the driest month, with the least rainfall.

The highs are also much closer to 50 ° F, which means you almost do not even need a jacket depending on where you are from.

Of course, you will still want to bring your jackets . While the weather is much more temperate, there will still be some cold days. However, it is totally livable and the country is also becoming so much more green!

Iceland in May is also still shoulder season, which means you will not have to try so hard to find your own space while enjoying the sunshine.

Iceland Weather in June

Welcome to high season! While it is called the high season because it is most popular among tourists, June in Iceland is also the high season for the longest days.

If getting the most out of each day is important to you, then June is the best month to visit Iceland. You can explore for many more hours in daylight.

June nights only last for about 3 hours, beginning around 11:30 PM! Yeah, blackout curtains are a big thing in Iceland summers!

While the highs average around 52 ° F, they can get much higher than that. June is the beginning of summer, and also the beginning of real warmth.

Iceland Weather in July

Now, if you are interested in heat rather than warmth , July might be a better time to visit Iceland. It is the best time of year to visit Iceland for heat, as the hottest month of the year. It is also the least windy month.

The weather in Iceland in July is generally extremely pleasant during this time of the year. While the nights are a little longer, at about 4 hours long, they do not increase by much!

Keep in mind that “hot” does not mean the same thing in Iceland as it does in other places. The average highs are around 56°F. That is part of why it is one of the most popular times to visit because it does not get any warmer than this.

Iceland Weather in August

August is the last month of the high season. While the beginning of the month is still as warm as July, temperatures start to go down by the end of the month.

August is the best time to go to Iceland if you do not mind the crowds due to the fairly standard daylight hours. The sun sets around 9 PM and rises around 5 AM. August has the least cloudy days as well.

Do keep in mind that August in Iceland goes quickly from summer to fall. By the end of the month, the slight bite to the air will have you wishing for warm pumpkin pie and spiced apple cider.

Iceland Weather in September

September still has great sunshine for Iceland, but it does go down to just below 12 hours by the end of the month. It is the warmest month with a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Temperatures are still quite nice, and we are back in shoulder season. This means that you can enjoy the nice weather and decent daylight hours without all the crowds of summer.

By the end of the month the likelihood of snow increases. If you visit Iceland in September , you will want to pack your warm clothing!

Iceland Weather in October

October in Iceland is still technically part of the shoulder season, but it is starting to feel much more like the low season of winter. Daylight is down to about 8 hours a day.

In addition, the average temperature is dropping back down to about 41 ° F. While it is not absolute winter yet, the weather should be taken into consideration at this point.

Bring warm clothes and waterproof ponchos. October is the wettest month in Iceland with an average of 14 days with precipitation.

Although it is colder, October is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to explore with as few crowds as possible. The roads are still open and you can still go pretty much everywhere you want.

Iceland Weather in November

Welcome to winter and the off-season in Iceland. November begins the coldest time of the year, although December and January are colder. This is when the snow starts to fully cover the island.

The average temperature is 38 ° F, but it can get much colder. Daylight only lasts about six hours.

We love to visit Iceland in the low season, and really do think it is one of the best times to visit Iceland. You just have to be prepared for the lower temperatures and the weather.

Iceland Weather in December

The last month of the year is one of the coldest months, second only to January. Temperature highs only reach about 39 ° F. It gets as cold as 21 ° F.

In addition, Iceland in December sees quite a lot of precipitation and snow. Daylight hours are generally pretty short.

However, this does make it and January the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights! However, it is also the cloudiest month, meaning the lights can get obstructed.

Iceland Events and Activities by Month

While the weather is a big deal, sometimes it is not as important as what you can do. After all, most weather is survivable if you plan and dress accordingly.

If you are more curious about what is going on than what temperature it will be, we have you covered! We have broken down the events and activities you can do during each month of the year.

You might be surprised by some of your options, especially during the winter!

Iceland in January

Can you even go wrong with New Year’s Eve when you are celebrating in a different country? Especially Iceland!

The country takes this holiday seriously with partying on New Year’s Eve, sleeping on the first, and shopping on the second.

And then there is Christmas–that is right, Christmas extends into January in Iceland, with the last day being on the 6th. If Christmas is your favorite holiday, then the end of December and the beginning of January is definitely the best time to visit Iceland.

Another great January tradition in Iceland is Thorrablot . This pagan celebration was canceled when Iceland went Christian but has had a resurgence in the last couple of centuries.

It is a week-long celebration of an Icelandic tradition that will not disappoint. If you want to feel like a local, prepare yourself for some things you have never eaten before, like rotten shark meat, boiled sheep’s head, and congealed sheep’s blood.

Iceland in February

February is beloved for the Winter Lights Festival . As a celebration of bright and happy things, you will love the way they light the streets with brilliant fluorescence to chase the darkness of winter away.

Öskudagur is basically Icelandic Halloween. The kids dress up in great costumes, and instead of the “trick or treat” chant, sing for their candy.

The Icelandic Food and Fun Festival is a fantastic festival that celebrates Icelandic cooking. And not even the kind that uses blood and rotten shark meat! It is all about using ingredients native to Iceland and enjoying all the culinary joys the country has to offer.

Iceland in March

Did you know that Iceland had its own prohibition period? Beer with an alcohol level of over 2.2% was banned for the majority of the 1900s but legalized again in 1990.

Iceland celebrates this legalization with the unofficial holiday, Beer Day, on the first of March every year! We think you can probably guess what the main activities are. (Drinking beer.)

DesignMarch is similar to the Food and Fun Festival in that it is a celebration of Icelandic creativity. The event features purely Icelandic products and goods.

Continuing in a similar fashion, the Reykjavik Folk Festival honors centuries of traditional music and song.

Iceland in April

Iceland celebrates Easter for days just like Christmas. Honestly, we do not know why more countries do not do holidays like this! Celebrating with just one day is so minimal!

Easter lasts from Holy Thursday to Easter Monday in Iceland. It is generally spent with family, rather than with huge parties.

April’s other holiday is the first day of summer. Given the dark of winter and the light of summer, and the very small in-betweens, Iceland actually does not traditionally recognize spring and autumn as seasons. So summer starts in April!

Iceland in May

The Reykjavik Art Festival is a big deal in May! People come from all over the world to participate in and experience creativity and fun.

If art is not your thing, May still might be the best time to visit Iceland with the Rite of Spring Festival. We know, we know, we just told you there is no spring in Iceland.

But when Iceland gave up its traditional calendar, they adopted spring and autumn into their new calendar. And they like to welcome spring with heartfelt jazz and folk music!

Iceland in June

It should come as no surprise that a country that willingly eats rotten shark meat celebrates the sea! Iceland’s Festival of the Sea happens in June, and it honors the country’s long tradition of seafaring.

Iceland also celebrates its independence from Denmark every June 17th. Like the 4th of July in the United States, Iceland National Day is a country-wide affair filled with parades, concerts, and general enjoyment of Icelandic culture.

Summer Solstice takes advantage of the Midnight Sun with all-night rock concerts. You can also join the locals in watching the sun set and rise all within the course of 2-3 hours.

Another unique Iceland festival is the International Viking Festival . It is a days-long holiday event that pays tribute to Iceland’s fierce Viking history.

Iceland in July

Innipukinn Festival is another music festival that happens in July. If you are not already getting the sense that you can hit up a music festival basically anytime you visit Iceland, well, you can. Icelandic people really love their music, okay?

They mix things up a bit with LungA , a festival specific to the Icelandic town of Seyðisfjörður . This festival still has music (as any good festival does) as well as art!

Iceland in August

Verslunarmannahelgi–say that five times fast, we dare you! Honestly, if you can pronounce it once we will be impressed. Verslunarmannahelgi happens the first weekend of August and is a quick bank holiday (kind of like Labor Day in the US). People generally celebrate by going camping.

Gay Pride comes the second weekend of August, and nowhere celebrates it as Reykjavik does! With parades, parties, and concerts, this is truly a vibrant and fantastic event.

If you like running, (like, really like) then the third weekend of August is the best time to visit Iceland! This is when the Reykjavik Marathon occurs, and it is another event that attracts people from all over the world!

The marathon wraps up with Menningarnott , a fantastic cultural celebration with cultural events, fireworks, and you guessed it, great music!

Iceland in September

The capital city of Reykjavik has two festivals in September, making it the best time to visit Reykjavik if you are wanting to have some fun during the shoulder season.

First is the Reykjavik International Literary Festival . This one is not just a big deal to Iceland, it is actually the biggest literary festival in Northern Europe!

Next is the Reykjavik International Film Festival . There is just something about literature and film that make them go hand in hand. Both of these festivals draw people from all over the world, but especially the film festival!

Iceland in October

Iceland Airwaves is another music festival but centers on indie and alternative music rather than the traditional folk and rock music of so many other festivals. Of course, folk and rock music still abound!

Iceland also celebrates Halloween in October, although they have not been celebrating it as long as other countries and do it a little differently. It is more of an adult holiday, but still features costumes!

Iceland in November

November does not have a whole lot going on in the realm of festivals and events. What it does have, though, it makes sure to do well.

Frostbiter is Iceland’s Horror Film Festival. So while Iceland does not have much going on in November, it is still the best time to visit Iceland if you love horror!

Iceland in December

Sorry not sorry, but Iceland has the best Christmas lights. Seriously, you have to check them out! Because the country is so dark all the time in December, they go all out with the Christmas lights.

And the way they make such a contrast against the dark? Unbeatable.

Everything about Iceland Christmas is simply unbeatable. From the concerts to the food to the country’s own unique and fun traditions, you will absolutely love it.

New Year’s Eve is filled with fireworks, bonfires, and singing. There are even costumes!

And they do not wrap things up and go to bed at midnight. Iceland New Year partying lasts long into the early hours of the next day.

December is the best time of year to travel to Iceland if you love all the December holidays!

When is the Worst Time to Visit Iceland?

Honestly, there is really no bad time of year to visit Iceland as long as you plan accordingly. After reading this article, you should have a good idea of what each month has to offer in terms of weather, natural events, and festivals.

As long as you visit when you want to and pack according to the season , you will be in Iceland at the right time.

If you want to see the Northern Lights, summer is the worst time to visit Iceland. But, if you want clear roads for your rental car and warm weather, then winter is the worst time to visit.

So, When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

At the end of the day, the best time to visit Iceland is 100% up to you! Whatever your interests are and your budget will determine when you should visit this amazing country.

After all, this is your trip to Iceland. Plan it around what you want to see and do.

Do you want the midnight sun and purple, lupine flowers? Come during summer. Hate crowds and overpaying, but want decent weather? Give shoulder season a try. Does your Iceland bucket list involve the Nothern Lights or ice caves? Winter is your best bet!

Iceland is gorgeous year-round, and you really cannot go wrong no matter when you visit!

We hope our guide to the best time to visit Iceland has been helpful! Feel free to let us know when you decide to go in the comments below. What is your favorite time to travel to Iceland?

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When is the best time to visit Iceland in 2024?

Mar 7, 2024 • 5 min read

Summer is the best time to take an Iceland road trip © Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

There’s no such thing as the perfect time to visit Iceland as the weather is notoriously whimsical and the best season for your trip depends entirely on what you want to experience.

Mid-summer is glorious with eternal daylight courtesy of the midnight sun. This is the time for hiking, camping and exploring the wilderness, and when most services are open. The down side is many destinations will be packed with tourists.

We've got all the information you need about the highs and lows of different seasons. Whenever you choose to visit Iceland, pay attention to forecasts and road conditions and follow any safety advice issued by Icelandic authorities . 

December to January is best for seeing the Northern Lights

Christmas lights brighten up the darkness and a festive spirit is in the air as the dark season nears its peak. Frost glitters and snow transforms landscapes into winter wonderlands. Christmas markets are held in Heiðmörk outside Reykjavík, in Hafnarfjörður and on Ingólfstorg square in Reykjavík, which has the added bonus of an ice rink. If conditions are right, the first ski resorts open up.

The sparse daylight means that you have a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights, especially outside populated areas where there is less light pollution (find a Northern Lights forecast here ). Joining tours is advisable. While it is possible to drive yourself, road conditions are often slippery and snowstorms are common.

Festivals worth checking out in winter include Dark Music Days and þorrablót mid-winter feasts, celebrated around the country. For the brave, restaurants often serve special þorri food.

February to March is the best time for snow sports and hot springs

It’s still dark and cold so communities brighten up the darkness with events like the Winter Lights Festival in Reykjavík and List í ljósi festival in Seyðisfjörður in the East. In narrow fjords in the Eastfjords and Westfjords, inhabitants celebrate the return of the sun with sólarkaffi and have pancakes. Snow sports become more enjoyable as daylight gradually returns.

Spring is an abstract concept in Iceland as the weather doesn’t always play along. It can still be cold and snowy, but the days get longer and the sun sometimes shines on skiers – this is often the best time for snow sports. The first of the migrant birds arrive and slowly but surely, nature springs back to life. Around Easter, events like Easter egg hunts are a fun family activity. In Ísafjörður, the Aldrei fór ég suður music festival is held and Ski Week  is around the same time.

April to May is the best time for off-peak travel

While the weather is still unreliable, temperatures gradually rise. The first flowers blossom and trees bud. Migrant birds arrive in flocks and lambs and foals are born. Migrant whales have also returned and with better weather, whale watching is more enjoyable. The bird-watching season begins, although some areas may be closed due to nesting.

There are relatively few tourists around and if conditions are good, this can be a good time for a  road trip . Look out for off-season discounts on accommodation and activities. However, not all tours and services have opened up yet.

The first Thursday after April 18th is the official First Day of Summer in Iceland, which is celebrated with parades and events around the country – even though the weather rarely plays along.

June to August is the best time for outdoor recreation

While there’s no good weather guarantee, this is your best chance of sun and warmish temperatures. Late June to early August is when most Icelanders go on vacation, filling up campgrounds wherever the best weather is forecast. This is the height of the tourist season – and height of the whale-watching season – so whatever you have planned, it’s best to book ahead.

Expect crowds at the most popular destinations, like on the South Coast and the  Golden Circle . But as it’s bright all night, you can beat the crowds by traveling either super early or late. In July, Highland roads open up, but you'll need to book a tour or hire a 4WD vehicle equipped for F-roads and crossing rivers (if that’s your plan). Summer is the best season for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Around mid-August, wild berries ripen.

Summer is also festival season. Fishermen’s Day is a national celebration held in every seaside town on the first weekend of June. Around June 21, summer solstice is celebrated on Grímsey island, Iceland’s northernmost inhabited island. The Reykjavík Arts Festival is held every other year – the next one is on in June this year (2024).

Bræðslan music festival is held in Borgarfjörður eystri on the last weekend of July. Verslunarmannahelgi  is a weekend in August that is packed with festivals and events, and Reykjavík Pride has various events held throughout the city, culminating in the Pride Parade.

Reykjavík Culture Night and the Reykjavík Marathon are held on the third weekend of August.

September to November is best for cultural events

Nights grow colder and camping is no longer advisable as fall rolls into winter. The weather is often good, though, so hiking can still be enjoyable. Pay attention to weather forecasts and bring warm clothing. Nature starts to change colors, painting forests and heather yellow, orange and red. Þingvellir National Park is at its most beautiful.

Road tripping is still possible and there will be fewer travelers around. However, winter is around the corner, so roads get slippery as soon as the temperatures drop and conditions can get stormy.

Réttir sheep and horse roundups are held in the countryside, and the Reykjavík International Film Festival takes place in the capital. In East Iceland, the Days of Darkness festival is held around Halloween and the Iceland Airwaves music festival is held in Reykjavík. Advent is approaching and Christmas preparations begin. This is a great time for visiting galleries and museums, going to concerts, relaxing in heated swimming pools, and feasting on good food.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated March 2024

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These Are the Best Times to Visit Iceland

Here are the best times to visit Iceland for ideal weather, fewer crowds, and more.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Over the last decade, Iceland has become one of Europe's "it" destinations thanks to its ethereal — and highly photogenic — landscapes featuring ancient glaciers and rugged fjords.

Before you book your flight to this popular island nation, you'll want to think about everything you want to see and do on your trip because the time of year can determine what's available. Some attractions, like Iceland's famous hot springs , are open all year, while natural phenomena like the northern lights and midnight sun are best viewed during specific months. Here's a breakdown of the tourist seasons in Iceland:

• High Seasons:  June to August and late December
• Shoulder Seasons:  September to October and May
• Low Season:  November to April, excluding holidays

Read on to learn about the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching, northern lights spotting, and more.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Smaller Crowds

The busiest months in Iceland are June, July, and August, when most natural attractions are open and easily accessible. Iceland can stay relatively warm through the first week of October, so planning a September visit can be ideal since most crowds have thinned as children return to school. May, too, provides ample daylight for sightseeing, warmer temperatures, and fewer crowds.

The off-season between November and April is ideal for those looking to escape the hordes of tourists, as long as you don't mind the dark (by mid-winter, expect only five or six hours of daylight). Though some roads are closed, it's a glorious time to enjoy hot springs, backcountry skiing, and tours by snowmobile or jeep. You'll also have a better chance of spotting the northern lights. Tourism tends to pick up again during the holiday season, so avoid December if you're looking for a crowd-free vacation.

Courtesy of Visit Iceland

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Good Weather

During the summer months — July and August — the temperature in Iceland hovers around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a popular time to visit. And June, with its 24 hours of daylight, sees just about as many tourists as the peak of summer. But even during this season, rain and intense wind are not uncommon. The island's fickle climate often means you can experience all four seasons in a single day.

The weather remains pleasant in September, with temperatures between 43 and 52 degrees Fahrenheit. May is similar, but if you're keen on exploring some of the more remote hills and fjords, it might not be the best time to visit, as some roads remain closed while they thaw from winter's snowy cover. For serious hikers, the best time to visit Iceland is during the summer, when all the mountain roads and famous trails are open and accessible.

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Lower Prices

Getting to Iceland can be relatively affordable, especially compared to other European destinations. Travelers from the United States and Europe frequently find flight deals — keep an eye out for sales on Icelandair and low-cost airline Play to save even more on your journey.

Accommodations, tours, attractions, and meals can be pretty pricey throughout the year, but you might be able to save money by visiting during the off-season, which is typically late fall through early spring, excluding December. Summer is usually the most crowded and expensive time to visit.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for the Northern Lights

You'll need three essential factors to see the aurora borealis: darkness, clear conditions, and a surge in solar activity. The northern lights are often elusive and can easily be marred by transient clouds. To avoid disappointment, travelers should never plan their trip to Iceland solely for the northern lights because the island's weather is too capricious (statistically, there are more clear nights in Yellowknife, Canada , for example.) The best way to optimize your chances of seeing the northern lights in Iceland is by visiting from mid-October through March, when you have extended hours of darkness, and by getting out into the countryside to reduce ambient light pollution.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for Whale Watching

According to Icelandic marine biologist Edda Elísabet Magnúsdóttir, the peak months to go whale watching in Iceland are June and July. During the summer, Reykjavík sees higher numbers of minke whales and dolphins, while orcas congregate in West Iceland along the Snaefellsnes peninsula during the first half of the year.

In northern Iceland, you'll have a wider window to enjoy visits from humpbacks, minkes, and dolphins, which ply the Atlantic from May to August; a few humpbacks even stick around until the end of the year. Blue whales pass through in the summer, too. For best results, head to the charming small town of Húsavík , where you can spot more than 20 species of whales on boat tours that leave from the harbor.

Best Time to Visit Iceland's Hot Springs

Hot springs are intrinsic to Icelandic culture for social as well as wellness benefits. Reykjavík's public pools are open year-round (and are especially invigorating during the dead of winter), but Iceland also has hundreds of hidden "hot pots" that tap directly into the geothermal activity under its lava-ridden surface.

Expert Icelandic mountaineer and cofounder of Midgard Adventure , Sigurdur Bjarni Sveinsson, offers the following advice for hot water hunters: "Check them out during September or, even better, the first half of October, when they're all still accessible by mountain road, but the crowds of tourists have significantly died down."

For travelers who want to visit the Blue Lagoon , the most famous geothermal spa, the best time to visit is during the off and shoulder seasons, when crowds are thinner.

Worst Time to Visit Iceland

Thanks to Iceland's stunning landscapes and seasonal natural phenomena, there's really no bad time to visit. Northern lights seekers flock to the country during the darker winter months, while visitors chasing more daylight opt for summer. Of course, those traveling in the spring and fall can take advantage of more moderate weather and daylight, so the best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to see and do during your trip.

That said, the warmest months of the year are easily the worst time to visit if you're hoping to avoid the onslaught of tourists. July and August see the highest number of travelers, with big-ticket attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Jökulsárlón being particularly overrun. If you're planning to visit during that time, consider exploring more remote corners of the island like the Westfjords or East Iceland, which have their own cache of fjords, vistas, and waterfalls that are just as impressive as the natural attractions surrounding the capital — if not more.

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Home » Europe » Best Time to Visit Iceland – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Best Time to Visit Iceland – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is a land of extremes. From the midnight sun to the Northern Lights, and from striking volcanic landscapes to incredible wildlife, this far-flung island is a feast for the eyes.

Because the seasons vary so dramatically this far north, choosing the best time to visit Iceland is really going to depend on what you’re heading there to experience. But no season should be discounted as there’s plenty to see at any time of year.

While a visit to Iceland is off the well-worn tourist path, certain experiences and seasons attract a large number of tourists and should be booked well in advance.

Winters in Iceland are brutal, but if you’re well prepared with the right gear it can be a very rewarding time to visit, not only to see the Northern Lights. Hiking and whale-watching are best done in the summer when there are also loads of festivals to check out.

If you need help deciding on the best time to visit Iceland to get the experience you’re been dreaming of, read on. We’ve gathered all the details to help you choose that perfect time that balances cost, climate, and crowds.

Best Time To Visit Iceland – May-August

Best Time To Go To Reykjavik – September–October

Best Time To See the Northern Lights  – October-November

Best Time To Do the Golden Circle  – Spring (May–June), autumn (September–October)

Best Time For Sightseeing – May–mid-June, September

Cheapest Time To Visit Iceland – Spring (May–June), autumn (September–October)

When is the Best Time to Go to Iceland?

When to visit iceland – a month by month breakdown, faq about the best time to visit iceland, final thoughts on the best time to visit iceland.

The best time to go to Iceland for great weather is during the summer, between May and August. The days are at their longest, so you can cram plenty more sightseeing in, and the temperatures are pleasant and mild. 

This is also the peak tourist season for backpacking Iceland , so prepare for large crowds of tourists at sightseeing spots and attractions, not to mention the increase in prices for hotel rooms and flights. Of course Iceland is never cheap even in low season.

Late spring and early autumn offer a great compromise – all the benefits of mild weather without the peak season crowds and inflated costs. April to May and September to October offer this perfect balance – ideal for sightseeing. Yes, the days are slightly shorter and it may be a little cooler, but your reward will be a far more relaxed and budget-friendly experience. 

For me, it’s the perfect place to explore in October !

Whale-watching is best enjoyed between April and October – this is the peak season for travel, so make sure to plan and book well in advance. It is still possible to see whales outside of the summer season in certain regions, providing there aren’t any storm conditions. You’ll likely be given a thermal suit to protect you from the icy temperatures.

The northern lights are a popular reason for travel to Iceland. Usually, you can see these from around late September until March when the nights are darkest. Precipitation and cloud cover are not ideal for seeing the northern lights, so months where there’s less chance of cloud cover are ideal – October and November tend to be best. 

The cheapest time to travel is during the winter months, outside of the Christmas and New Year period. Rates on Icelandic accommodation and flights are the cheapest at this time. However, if you want to balance costs with better weather for sightseeing, then aim for the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. 

Best Time to Go to Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital city, is great to visit at any time of year. In the summer, the city gets around 21 hours of daylight and experiences the best weather. Maximum daytime highs reach into the high teens with precipitation at its lowest. 

While summer offers great weather, it comes at a price. Accommodation in Reykjavik will be significantly more expensive at this time, tourist numbers are at their highest, and you can’t see the northern lights at this time of year. On the upside, there are plenty of festivals and celebrations during the summer months, and it’s a great time for whale-watching.   

Autumn (September and October) is slightly cooler and the days start to get much shorter. However, prices on flights and hotels are much lower and the hordes of summer tourists have left. There’s a small chance you could see the aurora borealis on clear days, but if this is your primary reason for visiting, rather plan for a winter trip. 

Rain and snow characterize the winter months. It’s dark and cold and perfect for seeing the Northern Lights. Winter in Reykjavik can be fun too! And you’ll easily be able to pick up a good deal on accommodation and flights, However, certain experiences might be unavailable due to poor weather conditions and the impact of this on the roads.

Spring is a mixed bag when it comes to weather, but it’s still much cheaper than peak season. The days are getting longer and warmer, which is great for sightseeing but not for seeing the Northern Lights .  

Best Time to See the Northern Lights

The magical aurora borealis, or Northern lights, are a popular reason for travel to Iceland. The distances between cities here make it easier to avoid light pollution, and the winter months are dark, making it easier to see this incredible phenomenon. 

Like most natural occurrences, predicting the visibility of the Northern Lights is not an exact science, so there is always a small chance you could miss it. Of course, there’s not much you can do to encourage a solar flare or solar wind to increase your chances of seeing the aurora, but you can plan your trip for a time when it’s more likely that you’ll see them.  

September to late March is commonly the time when it’s dark enough for the Northern Lights to be seen. Months where there’s less or no precipitation are preferable as cloud cover is the last thing you want. October and November offer dark nights and low chances for cloud cover, increasing your odds of seeing the Northern Lights. 

February and March also offer good conditions for seeing the Northern Lights, but with a slightly increased chance of cloud cover. 

Best Time to Do the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is (as the name would suggest) a circular route that starts in Reykjavik and takes in some of Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes. It is a cornerstone for most Iceland tours . The route takes you to three of the country’s top attractions:   Þingvellir National Park , Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, and a whole host of extra little gems along the way. 

The route can be done in one day, or you could take your time to explore some of the smaller, but no less fascinating locations in between. Scheduled group tours can have you back at your hotel before a full workday has passed, but a self-drive adventure at your own pace can be very rewarding.

While the summer months offer the long days and mild weather ideal for sightseeing, it does come with the pitfalls of coach-loads of other tourists. If you’re doing a self-drive, accommodation along the way can get pricey at this time of year. 

Of course, doing the Golden Circle in winter will offer a completely different perspective on the landscape. It will be cold, but it does mean you could be rewarded with sights of the Northern Lights as well. Gullfoss waterfall will be frozen and hauntingly beautiful at this time. 

Best Time for Sightseeing in Iceland

The long daylight hours and mild weather of summer make it a great time to enjoy sightseeing. So great, that that’s when everyone does it. This means you’ll likely have to endure long waits at major attractions, straining to see past big crowds and the typical elevated pricing of high season. 

Traveling in May or September, the months immediately before and after high season, offer the best weather for heading out to the many sights, while simultaneously avoiding the crowds and costs of peak season. While the days are shorter than in high summer, there’s still plenty of daylight to enjoy your sightseeing. Any earlier than May or later than September can see the weather becoming more variable, and the days very much shorter. 

Winter is significantly cheaper for a visit to Iceland, however, aside from the icy temperatures, the snow and rain can make some roads impassable, meaning some sight will be inaccessible. The days are also very short, offering only around four or five hours of daylight to get your sightseeing in. 

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Cheapest Time to Go to Iceland

Winter, outside of the Christmas and New Year holiday period is the cheapest time to visit Iceland. This time of year is characterized by intense cold, dark days with only a few hours of daylight, and in times of bad weather, inaccessible roads in some places. 

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer a happy compromise between the lovely weather of summer and the low costs of winter. During these shoulder seasons, you can still enjoy good weather and a crowd-free experience. 

Another benefit of travel outside of peak season is that you have the option to hold out for last-minute offers which can further save you on accommodation and flights.

If you are trying to save a few quid when visiting Iceland, check out the pod hostels in Reykjavik .

Busiest Time to Visit Iceland

Despite its long and dark winters, Iceland is a rewarding destination all year round and attracts tourists throughout the year. Of course, certain times are busier than others, so it’s always best to have all the facts when it comes to choosing the best time to visit Iceland. 

The busiest tourist season is during the summer between May and September. These months offer the warmest weather, with daytime temperatures in the low 20s, and in some places almost 21 hours of daylight. 

The long days and mild weather are ideal for sightseeing, whale-watching, and hiking. The Northern Lights are not visible during the summer months. 

The winter months are the quietest time to visit Iceland, with the exception of the Christmas and New Year holiday period when we see a brief return to peak conditions with more tourists and higher pricing. 

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are busier than the winter months in terms of tourist numbers but not as crowded as the peak summer season. 

Weather in Iceland

Iceland has four very distinct seasons, although the weather at any time can be variable and unpredictable. 

The west of the country benefits greatly from the warm Gulf Stream current that flows from the Caribbean. When this warm air meets the Arctic air from the north, things can get very temperamental.

There’s a saying in Iceland, ‘if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes,’ and these swirling competing air masses are to blame for this. In the winter, this can lead to windy, stormy weather. 

Summer in Iceland is characterized by long daylight hours and mild temperatures. Days rarely reach temperatures exceeding the low-20s, and while it’s mostly sunny and bright, it can also turn misty and rainy at the drop of a hat. 

Winters are cold in Iceland, with frequent snow and rain. It’s dark, with only a few hours of daylight, and high temperatures rarely break into the double digits (Celsius). Stormy weather can cause problems with travel as some roads may become impassable. 

Interestingly, although Iceland is located further north than most of Europe, the United States and parts of Canada, its winters aren’t as cold as, say, New York or even Russia. The warm Gulf Stream ensures that the country doesn’t quite live up to its name as much as we would expect. 

Where is the Best Weather in Iceland?

The southern coastal region of Iceland is generally characterized by mild summers and cool winters which don’t often get too cold. The influence of the warm ocean currents causes an overall milder climate. The differences between summer and winter are not extreme, and rain can be expected at any time of year.

Further inland and in the higher elevations, the climate is much cooler. Summer peak temperatures rarely break into the teens (Celsius) and the winters are much colder than the southern coastal regions. 

The northern regions of the country tend to exhibit cooler temperatures overall, with maximum daytime highs in winter hovering at around 10°C – significantly colder than in the south, which averages 0°C.

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Festivals in Iceland

Iceland celebrates many festivals annually, from ancient Viking traditions and religious observances to more contemporary celebrations. The population of Iceland may be small, but its capacity for celebration is large. 

A slightly modernized Viking tradition featuring loads of singing and dancing and eating. The gastronomically adventurous and strong of stomach can try traditional delicacies like fermented shark, sheep’s head, and pickled ram testicles, and wash it down with a potent shot of  brennivín  – a schnapps-like spirit nicknamed the ‘Black Death’.  

• Winter Lights Festival:

Hosted annually in February, the lights festival originated as a way to brighten up the darkness of the long winter months. Reykjavik is lit up with spectacular light installations, landmarks are illuminated, and various performances and shows. 

Over the four days of the festival, you can also enjoy Pool Night and Museum Night – extended opening hours and free admission at the city’s pools and museums. 

While not technically a festival or a celebration, the arrival of these shy, goofy-looking birds is worth taking note of. The puffins arrive on the shores in impressive numbers (over 10 million birds) in the spring for their breeding season, departing again by mid-August. Iceland is the breeding home for over 60 percent of the world’s Atlantic puffins, with colonies located all over the country. 

The best time to see and photograph them is in late summer.

• International Viking Festival :

A celebration of the country’s Viking heritage, this is the oldest and biggest festival of its kind, held annually at Viking Village in Hafnarfjörður.

Five days of staged battles, dances, and story-telling offer visitors a glimpse into traditional Viking life. Visitors can learn to use traditional weapons like spears and axes, learn wood carving techniques, and purchase a variety of handmade goods from the market.

• Frostbiter:

Icelandic folklore is filled with tales of monsters and supernatural creatures. These dark tales are likely a result of the deep, dark winters, volcanic landscapes, and dramatic scenery of the country. 

This penchant for dark themes has birthed an annual horror film festival celebrating these macabre, strange, and downright terrifying movies. 

Horror film fans can head to Akranes, a small town north of Rejkyavik, for the Iceland Horror Film Festival which celebrates both local and international horror films. 

Christmas is a special time to be in Iceland. From traditional Christmas concerts, festive markets, and twinkling lights that cut through the winter darkness, the country is transformed into a winter wonderland. 

Any Christmas in Iceland is virtually guaranteed to be a white Christmas, and the chances increase the further north you travel. 

If you’re still in any doubt as to the best time to visit Iceland for the experience you’ve been dreaming of, take a look at our month-by-month guide. 

We’ve gathered all the details for each month of the year to help you find the ideal balance of costs, crowds, and climate.

January in Iceland

January in Iceland is  cold and dark . Average high temperatures hover around 2°C and winds often reach gale force, making it feel colder than it is. There’s a good chance of rain and snow as well. 

It’s very much low season, so definitely the  cheapest time to visit Iceland , and there aren’t too many other tourists to contend with at tourist attractions. However, the days are short and offer only a few hours of daylight for sightseeing. Certain roads and attractions are likely to be closed or inaccessible due to weather conditions. 

February in Iceland

It isn’t much warmer in February , but the chance of rain and snow decreases. The days are getting longer so there’s more time for sightseeing. Most of the roads should be accessible by now unless there’s a bad storm. 

You’ll still benefit from  low season conditions : sightseeing is still pleasantly crowd-free and prices are low. 

March in Iceland

March is still cold with  occasional rainy days . Snow isn’t likely unless you’re headed to the higher elevations. The days are getting significantly longer now, and there’s  more daylight than darkness  now. 

There are few tourists around so sightseeing is still relatively uncrowded. This is a great time for winter sports in the mountains as there’s far more daylight to enjoy the slopes.  

April in Iceland

This is the unofficial start of the summer season in Iceland. As the snow melts, the landscape is blanketed in greenery, and flocks of migratory birds arrive. While it’s still chilly with maximum temperatures only hitting the single digits (Celsius), there’s significantly  less rainfall and much longer days . 

Tourist numbers start to increase from April, but it’s still not peak season so costs and crowds are manageable. 

May in Iceland

May is the best time to visit Iceland if you’re wanting a good balance between crowds, costs, and climate. The days are lovely and long, if a little chilly, there are  fewer tourists, and prices are still low . 

Temperatures are still fairly low, with the average maximum rarely peaking over 10°C. And like any time in Iceland, the weather has the potential to be erratic. Snow is unlikely unless you’re headed to the mountains.

June in Iceland

It’s now feeling a lot more like summer. Average high temperatures can get as high as 20°C but usually hover around the low-teens. You can expect  bright, sunny days  for the most part, with the longest days of the year. 

With the mild weather come the  crowds and peak season pricing . Anyone wishing to visit in high season should book well in advance. 

July in Iceland

Like June, July offers  long sunny days  and mild temperatures that attract large numbers of tourists. Average daytime temperatures creep closer to the mid-teens, but can sometimes get much higher. You may experience light rain on occasion. 

This is one of the most  popular times to visit Iceland , so expect busy attractions, crowds of tourists, and elevated pricing. If you’re visiting at this time, there are plenty of outdoor festivals and celebrations to attend.

August in Iceland

It’s still fairly warm in August, with  daytime highs in the low teens , but the temperatures start to decline noticeably as the month progresses. There’s a slightly higher chance of rain, and days are getting noticeably shorter too. 

It’s still a great time to travel to Iceland in terms of weather, but you may still encounter  large numbers of tourists  and higher pricing. 

September in Iceland

The days shorten significantly in September in the lead-up to winter. It’s rainier at this time of year and the  temperatures are cool , with an average maximum of around 10°C. The first sightings of the northern lights are possible now, although not guaranteed. 

If you’re visiting at this time, you can enjoy the crowd-free conditions and the lower pricing that follows the peak season. 

October in Iceland

Weather conditions become  much more wintery  in October. While it’s technically only autumn, the average maximum temperatures drop into the single digits, the days are short, and rain is common. 

Conditions are still good for sightseeing and the weather hasn’t yet impacted the conditions of the roads. You’ll also benefit from  fewer crowds and off-peak pricing . The northern lights become much easier to see from October onwards. 

November in Iceland

Temperatures continue to drop  along with the number of daylight hours. There are only a few hours of daylight to enjoy, so you’ll need to plan your time well. Light rain is common, and if you’re heading further north, your chances for snow increase. Some attractions and roads are impacted by the weather and may not be operating. 

Tourist numbers are low  at this time, making sightseeing pleasant and stress-free. You may be able to pick up some  great deals on accommodation  during November. 

December in Iceland

The cities transform into festive  winter wonderlands , with twinkling lights and festive markets brightening up the winter darkness. Snow is common at this time as is rain, and average daytime temperatures hover around 4°C. 

There’s a small spike in tourism around Christmas, but if you book in advance, you’re still likely to pick up a good deal on accommodation.  

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When is the Best Time to Go to the Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle route can be done at most times of the year. May and September are the best times, as they offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

When is the Rainy Season in Iceland?

The weather in Iceland is notoriously unpredictable and rain can be expected at any time in the year. Most of the rain falls over the winter months between October and February.

When is the Coldest Month in Iceland?

January and February are the coldest months in Iceland. The average maximum temperature is around 2°C, and rainfall and snow are frequent.

When is the Worst Time to Visit Iceland?

Iceland’s short summer occurs between June and August. This is when large numbers of tourists flock to Iceland to enjoy the sights in the mild weather.

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Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is a land of contrasts and extremes. Whether you choose to visit in the height of summer or the very depths of winter, each experience will yield a unique perspective of this fascinating island. 

Choosing the best time to visit Iceland will depend largely on what experiences you wish to have. It all comes down to striking a balance between the weather conditions, the tourist numbers, and seasonal pricing. 

If you’re planning a visit in the summer – you’ll be treated to long sunny days, but it’s essential to book well in advance. If you’re hoping to go off the beaten track and explore outside of the peak season, you might want to hold out for a last-minute deal. 

Either way, there’s plenty to experience in Iceland. And when you’ve done it all? Come back and do it all again in a different season for a completely new perspective. 

• Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our  backpacking Iceland guide .
• Check out the  best hostels in Iceland to kickstart your adventure.
• Know  where to stay in Reykjavik  BEFORE you get there… trust me on this one.
• With the  best international SIM card you can stay connected, always.
• Seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Explore the best places to see the northern lights .
• Explore some of the best waterfalls in Iceland to experience something a lil’ different.
• Plenty of backpackers – myself included – make a stop at Iceland’s Blue Lagoon at the end of their Iceland adventure.
• Expand your horizons and explore the best winter destinations in Europe .

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Christina Grayt

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My husband and I will be in Reykjavik from August 16 to August 18th. We are very interested in taking a Golden Circle small group tour on August 17th. How do I find such a day tour?

Ask at the local tourist information centre, check online, or ask at your accommodation. There will be more than a few tour companies advertising their jaunts.

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Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Iceland

While there are many unique travel opportunities , various adventures, and great events year-round in Iceland, the best time to visit Iceland  is in  June  when the weather starts to warm up and the country experiences 24 hours of sunlight.

However, if you're planning your first trip to Iceland , the best time of year to explore this Nordic island nation really depends on what you're looking for—whether you prefer warmer weather and outdoor events or you don't mind a little bit of cold for a great nightlife scene. When it comes to deciding what time is right for your trip, you should consider when to expect the biggest and smallest crowds, warmest or coldest weather, and highest or lowest costs for airfare and accommodations.

Peak Season in Iceland

Undoubtedly, July through the early August is the busiest time of year for Iceland's tourism industry, but crowd sizes and travel prices start going up in May and June and don't really start going down until September. If you're looking to avoid lots of tourists and to save money on your trip while still being able to access popular attractions, you might consider visiting in the shoulder season, which happens from early April to mid-June and mid-September to early November each year. 

The dead of winter, which runs from early December through mid-March, is the official off-season for Iceland, but a boom in year-round tourism since 2008 has resulted in prices for airfare and accommodations stabilizing over the years as more travelers have discovered the joys of this Nordic country's coldest season. However, you can still find great prices on last-minute airfare and even some special travel deals from the United States this time of year.

Weather in Iceland

Don't let the name Iceland fool you: The winters here aren't particularly bad; temperatures average 32 degrees Fahrenheit in the lowlands and 14 degrees Fahrenheit in the highlands for most of the season.   However, temperatures can dip down to 22 degrees below zero in the northern part of the country, so you'll want to avoid that area if you visit during the winter. June is the country's driest month of the year, while July is the warmest month of summer, with an average temperature of a pleasant 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and the  weather in Iceland  usually stays mild until late August.

When to See Natural Phenomena in Iceland

Known as a country of mystical landscapes and breathtaking vistas, one of the main reasons people visit Iceland is to enjoy its natural phenomena, including the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), the Midnight Sun, and the Polar Nights.

While nearby Norway may be home to the best places to see the Northern Lights , there are plenty of great spots in northern Iceland to catch a glimpse if you visit from mid-October through March, a period known as the Polar Nights when the country experiences up to 19 hours of darkness a day. However, if you're a creature of the sun, you may prefer to travel in the summer instead when the Midnight Sun results in over 20 hours of daylight from June through August.

While some attractions might not yet be open in March or April, which is the best time to see the snow giving way to lush greenery and wildlife, you're sure to find plenty worthy of exploring. Spring is particularly great for visiting unique destinations like the many remote hot springs spread across the country as their access roads are buried under snow all winter.

Events to Check Out

• Puffins arrive on the island each year in April.
• National Beer Day is held each year on March 1, celebrating the end of Iceland's prohibition. There are several craft beers now available. Pubs and restaurants throughout the country celebrate.

Summer in Iceland is one of the best times to visit because the weather is pleasant and the sun barely sets. If you'd prefer longer days to explore the outdoors and hike the defrosted fjords, you'll love that there are about 20 hours of daylight (on average) each month of this season. Along with seasonal events—including outdoor concerts and festivals celebrating art, culture, and music—Iceland provides ample opportunity during the summer to explore the highlands and thawed fjords, swim in crystal-clear mountain lakes, and hike around the gorgeous island landscape.

The drawback to summer, though, is that prices are generally higher across the board—on food, accommodations, attractions, rentals, and airfare. Additionally, lines are longer, hotels fill up, and restaurants run out of room on their reservation lists as tourists flock to the most popular spots during the long daylight hours of Iceland's summer.

• The Viking Festival takes place in June in Hafnarfjörður. It's the oldest festival of its kind in the country.
• June 17 is Icelandic National Day, a celebration of the young country's independence. 

If you visit in September through mid-October, you'll have an even better opportunity to enjoy the hot springs since there will be fewer crowds and you won't have to rely on snow melting to access these remote destinations. Additionally, some of the best opportunities to see the Northern Lights are on clear autumn nights in late October through early December, before winter weather settles in and blocks the view with thick clouds.

• The annual Iceland Airwaves music festival takes place in Reykjavik in November and showcases new music from around the world.
• One of Iceland's oldest traditions is réttir, an annual island-wide sheep round-up that take place during September.

Summer has the benefit of long days but come winter, daylight shrinks to about five hours in a period called the  Polar Nights . If you can endure little sunlight, the question of when to visit Iceland suddenly becomes much harder because Iceland also has many bolder things to offer in winter: never-ending nightlife  in Reykjavik , infinite chances to view the  Northern Lights , and plenty of outdoor snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

The colder part of the year is also when flight prices to Iceland fall drastically and local hotels suddenly cut prices by more than half. Budget travelers wondering when to go to Iceland should aim for February or March because those months have more daylight than the earlier winter months but still the smallest crowds and the lowest prices.

• Winter means Christmas markets, which are abundant throughout Iceland. One of the best is Heiðmörk Christmas Market, about a 20-minute drive from Reykjavík.

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you're looking for, but June is one of the best months for visiting. It's before the peak tourist season begins and the midnight sun phenomenon is incredible to experience.

The off-season is the cold winter months, especially from November to April. Prices go up in the weeks around the holidays, but outside of those dates it's the cheapest time to visit Iceland.

The peak season in Iceland is July and August when the days are at their warmest. Prices start going up in May and June, but you'll still find cheaper rates than you will in the late summer.

Guide to Iceland. "Weather in Iceland & Best Time To Visit." Retrieved February 10, 2021.

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The Best Time to Visit Iceland

By Amber Port

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Iceland is a beautiful country and one that has only grown in popularity over the past decade. The truth, however, is that the best time to visit Iceland depends on the trip you want to book.

The lure of Iceland ranges from the northern lights to its famous hot springs and incredible natural beauty.

We’ve gathered the high and low seasons, and when’s best for what so that you have an understanding of what you’ll get out of each month of the year.

High season: June to August and late December Shoulder seasons: May and September Low season: November to April, excluding school and public holidays

When is the worst time to visit Iceland?

Again, this depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. If you want to avoid the maddening crowds, we recommend not visiting during the high season, which runs from June to August and late December.

What months are the warmest in Iceland?

June through August are the warmest months, which coincides with Iceland’s high season. You can expect lots of tourists enjoying the country; however, if you’re looking to go whale watching or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking on those long summer days, this is the right time to visit.

When is the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights?

You’re never guaranteed to see the Northern Lights , but your best bet is between November and March when the nights are long and dark. You need a clear sky, a surge in solar activity and a relatively remote location to get the best glimpse of the aurora borealis. We recommend the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which offers an isolated position and an excellent vantage point to see the Northern Lights.

When is the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching?

The whale watching season coincides with the high season in Iceland. You can whale watch from April to September, with June through August being the best months.

When is the cheapest time to go to Iceland?

The cheapest time to visit Iceland is during the low season, which runs from November to April. There are fewer tourists too, which means flights, hotels , and any other rentals will be at a lower price point.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller .

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Best time to visit Iceland

The best time to visit Iceland is between September and March to see the northern lights, or between June and August for summer activities. While travel to Iceland may depend on your desired itinerary, generally, the best time to visit is during the summer. During this time, you’ll experience warmer temperatures and long days of sunlight, known as the spectacular midnight sun. While the summer boasts green countryside and animal spotting, the winter is the best time for the Northern lights and the country’s famous geothermal spas when they may not be as busy!

However, if you’re planning a trip to see something specific, such as the puffin or whale migrations, you’ll need to visit during a specific time of year. We've broken down some main factors to consider before choosing when to travel to Iceland.

The phenomenal cosmic light show, known as the aurora borealis or the Northern Lights, is a natural event that occurs from late September to late March. The long and dark winter nights make it an ideal time to visit, however, because it is a sporadic event, a definite sighting can't always be guaranteed. You may be more likely to see the lights during the equinoxes that occur around the 21st/22nd of March and September.

Learn more about the Northern Lights

Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon is a year-round natural geothermal pool that is said to have healing properties and is situated among a scenic Icelandic landscape. This mineral-rich seawater contains a mix of silica, algae and other bioactive elements that can be particularly beneficial for certain skin conditions.

While the lagoon is open all year, if you’re hoping to visit with slightly warmer weather, you may want to visit in the summer months (May to August). That said, many travelers love to visit the springs in the winter months to be surrounded by the beautiful snowy hills of the region while they relax in the outdoor lagoon.

The Icelandic coastline is famous for its whale activity due to the cold waters and favored feeding grounds of the local marine life. Between April to September is the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching as this is when the whales migrate north for the summer months. Keep a look out for humpback, minke, fin, sperm or even blue whales! You might even see other marine species such as orcas, dolphins, seals or harbor porpoises.

Best for: Þorrablót Mid-winter Festival and ice caves

While mid-winter weather and short days may deter some travelers, the colder months are also perfect for ice cave exploration and catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. However, if you’d like to stay out of the weather, why not partake in the honoring of the Icelandic ancestors during the Thorrablot festival? While visiting in January, join locals on a historical Icelandic food tour that includes foods such as hangikjot (flavored smoked lamb) or brennivin (a local distilled beverage).

Best for: Winter Lights Festival and Northern Lights

February is one of the best times to visit Iceland for some exciting food and cultural events. The two festivals, Winter Lights and Food & Fun are hosted annually by the capital Reykjavik and can add spark some joy in the coldest and wettest months of the year! But keep a watchful eye out for the Northern Lights.

Best for: Northern Lights, winter sports, Iceland Winter Games and the Annual Beer Festival

The longer and brighter winter days of March make it an advantageous time for winter sports. If you’re looking to downhill or cross-country ski, snowboard, snowshoe or hike the terrain, the nearest mountain is only a 20-minute drive away from Reykjavik.

Best for: puffins and golden plover migration, The Golden Circle  and smaller crowds

April marks the start of the spring season in Iceland and the breathtaking return of several local bird species, including the world-renowned puffins and golden plovers. While the locals celebrate the first day of summer shortly after April 18th, this month is a perfect time to visit for lower off-season prices and fewer tourists. Remember that there may still be an assortment of rain, snow, hail or shine, so pack accordingly.

Best for: whale watching, nature adventures and long days

May in Iceland sees the end of the cold winter months, however, temperatures still sit between 32-50,°F although there is less chance of snow. Towards the end of May, there can be up to 20 daylight hours which makes it a great time to do some fun outdoor adventures. Why not take a tour through the lava caves, hike your way across a glacier, snorkel or scuba dive in Icelan's pristine waters or even horseback ride along the countryside?

Best for: midnight sun, Hafnarfjörður Viking Festival, National Holiday of Iceland, Fisherman’s Day and the opening of some highland roads

Summer has arrived! With summer comes longer days and the peak travel season so prices are higher and attractions are busier. June is one of the best times to explore the natural wonders of the Icelandic countryside. However, with a great array of cultural, music and environmental festivals, there’s something for every interest. The end of May to the start of June is also the best time to see the famed midnight sun phenomenon in Iceland so make sure you bring a good sleeping mask!

Best for:   Braðslan, nature photography and long days

July is the busiest tourist month of the year for Iceland. With sunshine, greenery and longer days, it’s a perfect time to engage in the bustling city life or explore the vibrant natural scenery. If you’re looking for a slightly less crowded time, try to book in for the start of the month before the local schools are on break.

Best for: Reykjavik Pride, Reykjavik Culture Night, National Festival, Verslunarmannahelgi, Þjóðhátíð and wilderness exploration

Visiting Iceland in August usually ensures full access to the country’s wilderness as inaccessible areas in winter are now fully open. As one of the hottest months, the weather in August - while still unpredictable at times – is best for exploring the rugged and idyllic terrain of the glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs and waterfalls of the Icelandic wild. If nature isn’t your thing, the local scene has plenty of events and attractions to fill your itinerary.

Best for: fewer crowds and mild weather

September marks the end of the busy summer months but temperatures can still fall between 40-50°F. With the bulk of tourists on their way home, you’ll find lower prices and smaller lines for attractions. This is a great time to go if you’re looking to surround yourself with great music or film. Note that some highland roads will be closed by the end of the month for winter.

Best for: Northern Lights and berry picking

See the vibrant autumnal colors that blanket Iceland during October as the temperatures lower and leaves drop. As the colder months set in, plan for the Northern Lights as they can easily be seen at this time of year, especially when away from city areas without cloud cover.

Best for: hot springs, ice caves and Northern Lights

November brings winter into full steam with a drop in temperatures and daylight hours. Winter is often the most scenic time to visit one of Iceland’s many hot springs and relax in the white-blanketed scenery. With the drop in temperatures comes the reformation of the ice caves making November a perfect time to transverse the chilly blue caves and stunning glaciers.

Best for: New Year’s Eve, frozen waterfalls, glacier exploration, Christmas villages and festive lights

Looking to party into the new year? Iceland’s eclectic music scene and picture-perfect Christmas villages can provide you with day-to-night entertainment. While December is known as one of the coldest and windiest months, the Northern Lights are often viewable during this time. Just note that some hotels, services and attractions are closed during the winter.

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Tours & Vacation

• Oct 31, 2023

Your Complete Guide to the Best Time to Visit Iceland

Iceland is an incredible natural paradise all year round, with steaming geothermal lagoons, towering waterfalls, icy glaciers and fiery volcanoes dotted across the island. However, there are certain natural wonders you can only experience in-person at certain times of year, such as the famous Northern Lights, Midnight Sun and even some of Iceland’s impressive ice caves.

If you’re wondering ‘when is the best time to go to Iceland?’, you’re in the right place. We’ll guide you through what you can expect for your Iceland vacation during each season, so you can get a better idea of what the best time of year to travel to Iceland is for you – let’s go!

When is the Best Time to Travel to Iceland?

The best month to visit Iceland really depends on what you’d like to do during your time on this magical island. For example, if you’re determined to see the Northern Lights, you’ll be best planning a winter Iceland vacation, but if your dream is to experience the Midnight Sun, a summer Iceland vacation will be the best option for you.

Each season has its own benefits and wonderful experiences to offer. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when visiting Iceland in winter, spring, summer and fall, so you can choose the best time to travel to Iceland for you.

Visiting Iceland in Winter: December, January and February

Iceland in winter can only be described as a true winter wonderland! With incredible ice caves, sprawling glaciers and frozen waterfalls, the snow-covered landscapes of Iceland look just like a Christmas card during the winter season.

Winter is, without a doubt, the best time to travel to Iceland for the Northern Lights. A firm bucket-list favorite, this spectacular dancing light show is one not to be missed. You can take a guided Northern Lights tour or go aurora hunting by yourself during your Iceland winter vacation – don’t forget to check the Iceland Aurora Forecast for the best chance to spot these incredible lights.

If you’re looking for the best time to travel to Reykjavik, Iceland to experience an authentic and fun taste of Icelandic culture, we can definitely recommend December as the perfect month to take part in Reykjavik’s famous Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Although winter is the best time to see the Northern Lights, this does come with the downside of shorter daylight hours, giving you less time to explore Iceland’s incredible landscapes during the day. The days reach their shortest around the winter equinox in December, when the sun shines for just five hours a day. You can easily plan a fulfilling Iceland vacation during winter, though, as long as you plan ahead so you can fit all your must-do activities into your itinerary.

Be aware, also, that the mountainous F-roads leading to the Icelandic Highlands in the interior of the island are closed during winter. But, don’t worry – the main roads, including the Icelandic Ring Road, are open all winter. We recommend checking up-to-date Iceland road conditions and closures before heading out on your day trip.

Visiting Iceland in Spring: March, April and May

With rising temperatures, blossoming nature and longer days (without the summer crowds), the months of spring are, arguably, some of the best months to visit Iceland. You’ve still got a fairly good chance of witnessing the Northern Lights during March and April in Iceland, as well as the opportunity to go whale watching during April and May.

Towards the end of spring in May is perhaps the best time to travel to Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon, as the weather is still warm enough to take a comfortable dip in this incredible geothermal lagoon, but the summer crowds have not yet arrived on the island. This shoulder season also means prices will generally be lower, making spring the best time to visit Iceland for many travelers.

As the snow begins to melt, road conditions are generally good in Iceland during springtime. You’ll still be able to go skiing in Iceland in spring, as well as exploring the beautiful, green mountains, cascading waterfalls and volcanic beaches across the country. Just be aware that spring is a relatively short season in Iceland, as March can still be a little chilly and May is already heading into Iceland’s summer.

Visiting Iceland in Summer: June, July and August

If you’re wondering when to visit Iceland to experience the Land of Ice and Fire at its warmest, with the most opportunity to spend your days outdoors exploring the beautiful scenery and perhaps hiking in the majestic mountains, summer is definitely the best time to visit Iceland for you.

With amazing opportunities for whale and bird watching, visiting Iceland in summer is the perfect vacation for wildlife lovers. Intrepid adventurers will also love traveling to Iceland during the summer months, as the extremely long daylight hours give you ample time to explore the breathtaking natural wonders all across the island.

The highlight of Iceland in summer has to be the amazing Midnight Sun, which you can experience during your own adventure or on a guided tour, many of which take you to the top of a mountain. When else will you ever see the sun blazing across the sky at the hour of midnight? This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle not to miss! If you visit Iceland in July , during the peak of summer, you’ll have the best chance to witness the incredible Midnight Sun for yourself.

One important thing to be aware of when considering when to travel to Iceland is that summer is peak tourist season in Iceland, meaning attractions will generally be busier and prices will most likely be higher, too. You can make sure to get the most bang for your buck by booking ahead of time as much as possible.

Visiting Iceland in Fall: September, October and November

For those travelers on a budget but still wanting to experience the stunning landscapes of Iceland, fall is a great month to visit this Nordic nation. During this shoulder season, prices for accommodation, activities and travel are generally much less than the busy summer months and you’ll be able to enjoy Iceland without the crowds.

September is a great off-peak month to visit Iceland for mild weather and a good chance to see Iceland's famous puffins at the beginning of the month, plus whales and dolphins, too. You’ll also be able to see the Northern Lights on dark, clear nights in September.

Visiting Iceland in October will give you an even better chance to spot the Northern Lights, but also enough daylight hours to enjoy some outdoor adventuring during your vacation. In November, the weather can get chilly, so definitely wrap up warm and you’ll be all set to explore the amazing, icy landscapes of Iceland!

Plan Your Own Unique Iceland Adventure

Whatever time of year you visit, you’re bound to be awe-struck by the incredible landscapes of Iceland. However, we hope you’ve now got more of an idea about the best time of year to go to Iceland for you and your party.

Ready to start planning your own Iceland vacation? Looking through accommodation and travel options is a good place to start. Then, you can begin putting together your ideal Iceland itinerary – exciting! We’re happy to help you with finding the best guided tours in Iceland to enjoy during your vacation. Happy traveling!

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Best Time to Visit Iceland: Seasons, Tips & More

• Last Updated: December 9, 2022
• Norbert Zohó

If you’re thinking about Iceland for your next vacation destination, you will probably also be considering when is the best time to visit Iceland. With amazing attractions and activities all throughout the year, Iceland is an awesome destination at any time. Naturally, your preferences will almost certainly play a huge part in when you visit the Land of Fire and Ice.

Iceland’s summer months see lush verdant landscapes and long, sunny days because of the famous midnight sun. In wintertime, the stunning Northern Lights dance across the dark skies. Do you prefer to see cascading waterfalls or icy landscapes?

We’ll take you through the pros and cons of visiting Iceland at different times of the year, helping you decide on the best time for your vacation. Keep readings for expert tips related to seasonal activities and experiences, and find out when is the best time for you to plan your trip to the magnificent Nordic treasure.

The Off Seasons: Spring and Autumn

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The Travel Seasons in Iceland

There are three main travel seasons in Iceland: peak season, secondary peak season, and low season. The peak season is in the summer months (June, July, and August), and the second peak season is during the winter (November to March ). Spring and autumn make up the low season, also referred to as the shoulder season.

While Iceland offers plenty of wonders all year round, every season has unique characteristics and diverse events and activities. There are advantages and disadvantages of each season in Iceland.

Spring and autumn are the two shortest seasons in Iceland, each lasting for just two months. Spring is the months of April and May, while September and October are the autumn months. These four months comprise the low season in Iceland.

Flights to Iceland are cheaper than at other times of the year, and visitors can also score lower prices and terrific deals on accommodations and car rentals too. The cheaper prices make the low season an ideal time for budget travelers to discover Iceland.

The low season naturally sees fewer visitors than the high season. If you prefer to dodge the tourist crowds and have a quieter vacation, visiting Iceland in the low season could be for you.

April and October have nicer weather than in winter, though it isn’t as pleasant as during the summer. Expect fairly chilly temperatures, rain, and darker days. The shoulder months of May and September can be suitable for camping and hiking, although the changeable conditions mean that nothing is guaranteed. Typically, however, May and September experience relatively mild temperatures and lots of sunny days.

Over the low season, May usually sees the best weather, with the least amount of rainfall and wind. On the flip side, if you were set on seeing the Northern Lights , it won’t happen in May—the nights just aren’t dark enough. There are greater chances of seeing the marvelous Aurora Borealis in September or October, thanks to the darker night skies.

Puffins return to Icelandaround late April, so you’ll be able to spot the cute seabirds in May. You won’t see them, however, in the later off-season months of September and October. You will, though, be able to see whales during autumn.

The main disadvantage of Iceland in the low season is the unpredictable and quickly changing weather conditions. You can experience sunny days and mild temperatures, but rain, snow, and storms are common too. The road conditions aren’t as safe as during the summer months; while usually fairly safe in April, roads can still have snow and ice.

In essence, visiting Iceland in the low season is great if your main priority is saving money and spending less on your vacation, though the tradeoffs will be poorer weather. You will also need to be more flexible with your plans.

The summer months of June, July, and August make up Iceland’s peak travel season; this is the country’s busiest time for tourism.

The weather is the most pleasant in the summer, with the highest temperatures, mostly sunny and bright days, and the least chance of wind, rain, and storms.

There are more hours of daylight over the summer. In fact, it never fully goes dark, thanks to the famous Midnight Sun. The skies take on gorgeous shades of red, orange, purple, yellow, and pink at nighttime, and there’s enough light to be able to travel and even hike. Summer is the only period when visitors can sleep under canvas in tents, and it’s also the most appropriate time to travel around Iceland in a motorhome or camper van.

Summer offers the best driving conditions in Iceland. It is possible to reach the nation’s most remote corners by car, although some mountainous roads and destinations do still require the use of robust four-wheel-drive vehicles. Regular paved roads, including the Ring Road, are accessible by small cars and bicycles.

The summer is the prime time for hiking through Iceland’s amazing landscapes. The hiking trails are fully accessible, there’s lots of wildlife to spot, and the Highlands burst into bloom after the long, cold winter. You’ll spot creatures like reindeer, sheep, Icelandic horses, and Arctic foxes roaming around Iceland’s terrain, while whales and puffins are easy to spot near the coast.

Awesome summer activities include regular and glacier hiking, caving, and trying various water sports. There are plenty of sightseeing excursions too, along with a wealth of cultural events and music festivals.

The downsides of visiting Iceland in the summer are the prices, traffic, and crowds. Accommodations can be booked up far in advance and campsites can be crammed with tents and campervans, particularly places close to popular destinations and attractions. Well-known attractions can be incredibly busy, especially at peak times. There is little chance for spontaneity, as you must plan your trip in advance.

Summer is the most expensive time for an Iceland trip, with higher costs for accommodations, plane fares, and vehicle rentals.

Another disadvantage of a summer vacation in Iceland is that you cannot see the magnificent Northern Lights; the nights just aren’t dark enough. Additionally, almost all glacial ice caves are closed to visitors in the summer.

Iceland has a second peak season over winter—November to March . Lots of people visit Iceland to see stunning winter landscapes, spectacular ice caves, and frozen waterfalls in addition to the famous Northern Lights. There are terrific winter activities, like snowmobiling, to try too.

The long, dark nights are ideal for spotting the Northern Lights in all their glory. In fact, there are some 19 to 21 hours of darkness each day to watch for one of nature’s finest spectacles.

Iceland is full of festive cheer in December, and winter sees exciting firework displays and bonfires in the capital of Reykjavik.

Christmas and New Year aside, winter prices are usually lower than in the summer. It’s easier to find bargain flights, and you may also find cheaper accommodation. You won’t, however, be able to enjoy the cheapest accommodation option of camping, and touring by motorhome or campervan is also strongly discouraged.

Although popular, winter does see fewer visitors than in the summer, meaning that you don’t need to plan your vacation quite so far in advance, and you won’t get swallowed up in huge tourist crowds when visiting Iceland’s diverse attractions.

You may spot reindeer and horses outside over the winter, but you are unlikely to see much other wildlife. Whales and many bird species head south for the winter, and sheep are protected inside farm buildings.

A major drawback of winter is the weather. Winter is the coldest time of year, with strong winds and rain as well as many storms. There may be snow and ice too. Iceland’s roads can be difficult to drive in the winter, sometimes perilous, and there are lots of areas that are inaccessible with a regular car. The shorter hours of daylight also limit the amount of time people can realistically travel. December has the darkest days, gradually getting lighter, with March having more daylight than the depths of winter .

The Best Time to Visit Iceland

Iceland is a world of wonder at any time of the year, with terrific activities and fascinating sights all year round. That said, depending on your preferred experiences there may be a better time for you to visit. We’ve put together the most popular places, attractions, and activities and provided details of the best times to visit Iceland for each. This helps you plan your trip according to your wishes.

Summer experiences the best weather in Iceland. Between June and August is the perfect period for people who don’t like cold conditions and love warm, sunny days with little wind. July and August are the warmer months, but August does generally have more rain (usually in the second half of the month) than July. Conversely, June is the driest month but also the coldest.

While there are light, bright nights between late April and mid-August, the height of the famous midnight sun is from May to July. The peak is on June 21st—the summer solstice, or the longest day.

Over summer the sun doesn’t dip down below the horizon enough for darkness to fully fall, meaning that it’s light (to a degree) all through the night. In good weather conditions the stunning hues of sunset and sunrise color the skies for many hours throughout the night. There couldn’t be a better time to enjoy the start and end of each day and to take beautiful photographs.

In the south and around Reykjavik the sun sets just enough for you to experience sunset, before quickly rising again with glorious sunrise tones. In the north of the island, however, there is no true sunset.

Many people visit Iceland with the primary intention of witnessing the awe-inspiring phenomenon that is the Northern Lights. Visible from late August to early April in Iceland, better weather conditions increase your chances of spotting the aurora. Regarding temperature, September and October are the mildest months. Of these two months, September is better when it comes to cloud cover and rain.

Even though the temperatures are colder, November and February are also good months for seeing the Northern Lights. The longer hours of darkness give more time to get out and try to spot the magical lights.

November and February usually have clearer skies than December and January due to the fact that they are drier with less precipitation. (September is, however, still the driest month during the Aurora-spotting season .)

There are many spectacular hiking trails through Iceland’s gorgeous mountains. Accessing these trails, however, really depends on the weather. As the weather is better in summer, with higher temperatures, drier conditions, and less wind, it follows that this is when you will find better trail conditions; the summer is, therefore, the best time to hike in Iceland. Furthermore, most of the country’s well-known hiking areas can only be accessed over the summer, particularly those in Highland areas.

Mountain hiking trails are typically at their best between late June and late August. You might be able to enjoy coastal hiking trails, however, between May and September. Hiking is strongly discouraged during the winter, for safety reasons. Only strongly experienced hikers should attempt to hike in Iceland over the winter, and crampons should always be used.

The most popular and most comfortable time for camping in Iceland is during the summer. Temperatures don’t fall below 0°C (32°F) over nighttimes. Wild camping isn’t legal in Iceland, but there are more than 200 official campsites spread across the island. Most are open from the middle of May until the end of September. Winter conditions are not suitable for camping in tents.

The road conditions are at their safest and best from May to October, making this the best time to explore Iceland by campervan or motorhome. Some campsites remain open all throughout the year to cater to people who need a place to park their vehicles and sleep during the winter. Traveling on Iceland’s roads during the winter can be tough for all vehicles, particularly larger vehicles like motorhomes and campervans; strong winds, snow, and ice can make winter driving in Iceland exceptionally hazardous and challenging.

Exploring Iceland is magical at any time of year, though the limited hours of daylight in the winter are an important consideration when planning your trip.

If you are planning to take a self-driving vacation, keep in mind that the best driving conditions are generally from May to October. Driving in Iceland in the winter is usually difficult, especially if you have no prior experience of handling a vehicle in wintery conditions.

Guided tours are available at all times of the year, and can access places that you may not be able to reach independently. You can travel safely and conveniently to beautiful destinations under the care of an experienced local guide. Sometimes, groups travel in vehicles that have been adapted for the terrain and the conditions.

When considering the best time to travel around Iceland’s famous Ring Road, think about the key things you wish to experience along your route. For example, are you keen to hike through nature and admire verdant landscapes and vibrant meadows filled with wild blooms, or are dazzling ice caves and frozen cascades more your thing? Midnight Sun or Northern Lights? Are you mainly interested in discovering the local heritage and culture? Perhaps you dream of relaxing in the warmth of charming guesthouses while you watch the snow falling and blanketing the ground outside? Your preferences will help you to decide the best time for you to travel around Iceland’s Ring Road.

Although you can access Iceland’s most famous natural sites all throughout the year, the majority of visitors opt to experience them in the warmer summer months. This is when you’ll find the best weather and road conditions, but this also means that the roads have the most congestion and the attractions have the biggest crowds. If you prefer a quieter vibe with fewer people around, visit in the shoulder months of May or September.

If your time is limited in Iceland and you just have a few days’ vacation, the South Coast and Golden Circle are likely to be high on your travel wishlist. It’s possible to drive to these destinations at any time of year, though the weather means you’ll need to plan your trip(s) that bit more. The natural sites are stunning in the winter, although do keep in mind that they look different to in the summer.

It’s possible to spot whales all year round in the waters off Iceland’s coast. The best time to spot these magnificent sea creatures is over the summer. Migratory whales return to Iceland around the beginning of April. Although migratory whales depart again at the end of autumn, some whales, those who aren’t breeding, remain through the winter months too.

Female whales reach maturity in around five to seven years. When mature, whales breed once in every two to three years, and spend more than a year nursing their young. When not breeding, whales don’t need to make the long migratory journey and so remain in Icelandic waters.

Orcas (also known as killer whales), however, breed all throughout the year. Their migratory patterns depend on food supply. Since there are many fish, such as herring and capelin, in the cold winter waters, the distinctive black and white orcas are drawn to Icelandic waters to feed.

Especially great for nature lovers, you can watch beautiful sea creatures on a whale-watching trip . Head out to sea for a few hours to observe whales in nature. Northern Iceland’s Húsavík is a top spot for seeing whales in the wild, and Snæfellsnes (on Iceland’s northern peninsula) is a great place to see orcas.

You can spot various bird species in Iceland throughout the year, including blackbirds, ducks, swans, oystercatchers, and gyrfalcons.

Many avian species are migratory, though, meaning they are only present in Iceland at certain times of the year. This naturally results in some months being better than others for birdwatching. Plus, if there are particular bird species that you’re keen to see you should plan your trip around when they are at their largest numbers in Iceland.

Migratory birds generally start to return to Iceland in April. If you wait until May, however, the numbers are greater and thus the chances of fruitful bird-watching experiences are higher. The numbers of migrating birds are highest from May until the middle of August. That said, the best time for birdwatching in Iceland is considered by enthusiasts and experts to be from the latter half of May and the first three weeks in June.

After the winter, the first bird to come back to Iceland’s shores is the golden plover. It makes its arrival towards the end of March, signaling the eagerly awaited arrival of spring. Known as the lóa in the native language, the golden plover is the county’s most celebrated type of bird. After the golden plover returns, other birds too start making their comeback, eventually, their warbling, tweeting, whistling, and chattering creating the enchanting natural summertime soundtrack. Most Icelanders know a catchy poem-cum-folk song about the birds’ return, which includes the message: “The golden plover has arrived to banish the snow, to banish the boredom, that it can do. … It has told me to wake up and work, and full of hope welcome the summer.”

Lots of visitors wish to see the famous Atlantic puffins around the coast of Iceland. The puffins return in April and are abundant through the summer. With around 8 to 10 million puffins calling Iceland home in the summer months, it’s little wonder that Iceland is sometimes referred to as the puffin capital of the world! Puffins leave Iceland in September, following most other species who depart around mid-August.

Iceland offers an exciting array of glacier activities, such as ice climbing, glacier hiking , and snowmobiling . As Iceland’s magnificent glaciers are accessible in all their beauty all year round, visitors can therefore enjoy incredible glacier adventures at all times. You will need to consider the weather, however, to make sure you dress appropriately for the conditions.

For hiking on glaciers and ice climbing, it is particularly important to ensure you dress for the conditions. You’ll be provided with all the necessary safety equipment, but you’ll wear your own clothes underneath. If you don’t have appropriate clothes though you can normally rent them from the tour companies. For snowmobiling adventures, you’ll be given gloves, a balaclava, and a helmet for both safety and warmth, as well as a protective overall to keep you warm and shield you from the wind and rain.

Winter is the best time to explore spectacular ice caves in all their ethereal beauty. Every October, tour companies go on scouting missions to find new caves, with tours starting up in early November. Iceland’s ice cave season runs from November until late March / early April (weather dependent). This is when it is safe to visit the country’s ice caves.

Throughout the five or so months of the ice cave season, some periods are better than others for adventures. Fewer tours are available in December and January, largely because of the limited hours of daylight.

As the days become lighter in February and March , more ice-caving tours operate. There are more hours of daylight to explore the ice caves and it’s a great time to get the best photographs of your adventures.

A family trip to Iceland will probably depend on existing time availability, such as holidays from work or school. There will probably be certain experiences that you’re keen to enjoy—you can look above for inspiration and ideas. For example, would your family prefer to experience the Northern lights or the midnight sun? Are you an active family that wants to spend time outdoors and spotting nature, or are you captivated by wintery landscapes?

Many families choose to visit Iceland in the summer, as this is when you will find the most child-friendly activities and things for people of all ages. The range of activities help to enhance any family vacation, providing educational and cultural understanding and education to complement and richen sightseeing around Iceland.

Driving around the island is one of the most convenient ways for families to fully make the most of their time in Iceland. Rent a car or book a self-driving package and discover Iceland at your leisure. You can choose which places to add to your itinerary, how long to spend at each place, where to stop to eat, when to take bathroom breaks, and so on. You’re completely in control of your holiday. Travelling at a slower pace is recommended for families, especially in the winter months when you’ll need to have some flexibility and may need to make last-minute changes to plans if roads are closed etc.

Iceland is the perfect romantic destination for a honeymoon. Lovebirds can explore the nation’s gorgeous landscapes, discover the creative culture, and enjoy a diverse selection of tours and activities.

While you might already have set your honeymoon dates if you are able to choose when to take your honeymoon we really recommend a visit in the low season. Prices are lower and there are much fewer crowds to interrupt your newly wedded bliss.

The best time for an Icelandic honeymoon, however, does largely depend on what you are expected to see and do.

Summer is lovely, with plenty of lush greenery and endless sunny days. On the flip side, it’s the busiest tourism time, with the highest prices and biggest crowds. Autumn is brilliant, with smaller crowds and lower prices, not to mention the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights and attending cool music festivals.

Visiting Iceland in the winter can be really romantic, with the chance to make many magical memories of your first vacation as a married couple. Many major attractions are still accessible, but without the large crowds, and the snowy landscapes are enchanting. You can still spot the Northern Lights and then return to a cozy accommodation to relax and snuggle up.

In a nutshell, the more time you can spend in Iceland, the better! You can scratch the surface of Iceland’s famous attraction in a shorter trip of a few days, but you’ll truly get the most out of your holiday if you can stay for at least a week. With a week’s vacation, you can tick off the most popular places, enjoy typical activities like snowmobiling and hiking on a glacier, and take a relaxing dip in an enticing geothermal pool. And all at an unhurried pace.

With ten days or more you can travel more extensively around the island and visit some off-the-beaten-track gems and remote countryside treasures. This is a great way to get away from the masses and enjoy relative peace and quiet.

If you want to understand Iceland more like a local, plan to stay for at least two weeks … longer if possible. As well as headline attractions you can spend long days hiking in picturesque nature, stroll around lesser-visited seaside communities, marvel at remote fjords, and escape the tried-and-trodden path in places like the Eastfjords, Westfjords, and the north. There will be more opportunities to relish local cuisine, interact with locals, and learn more about the unique Icelandic culture.

Have you decided on the best time for your trip to Iceland? Or perhaps you’re still looking for a bit more guidance? In any case, contact our expert Iceland travel consultants to start the ball rolling in planning your amazing vacation.

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The best time to visit Iceland: few crowds, great deals, and blissed-out weather

Iceland is a fantastic year-round destination. Its landscapes change dramatically with each season, giving travelers countless activities to do. Like many European destinations, the peak travel season in Iceland is during summertime. Winter sees temperatures that rarely dip below 32℉, still fairly comfortable with the right thermal gear. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall enjoy significantly fewer crowds, with lower prices to boot.

Thinking of an Icelandic adventure? Here’s a breakdown of each season to help you decide when to visit Iceland.

Peak season in Iceland: June-August

Iceland's summer is the time for those looking to see and do as much as possible. The Midnight Sun sees the sun setting just after midnight, and rising again around 3 a.m. to 4 a.m. In fact, in mid-June, the sun doesn’t even seem to set at all! It might be a little odd to have hardly any darkness; one tip is to bring an eye mask to help you sleep.

Visiting Iceland during peak season naturally involves bigger crowds, higher prices, and fewer lodging choices. However, summer is the best time for road trips, with temperatures hovering between 50℉ and 59℉, and roads clear of ice and sludge. There are plenty of tours to choose from: discover the South Coast or combine the Golden Circle with the Blue Lagoon .

Come August, the country is taken over by multiple summer festivals, such as Sumardagurinn Fyrsti, which marks the first day of summer; Saga Fest, a celebration of the environment through music, art, and dialogue; and the Viking Festival, an extravaganza that delves into all things Viking, such as their history, food, and culture.

Wildlife-spotting season in Iceland

Summer marks the start of puffin season . Marvel at these adorable birds in Akurey and Lundey; multiple tours depart from Reykjavik every day, each with a 100% sighting guaranteed.

Whale-watching is also popular during summer, with many travelers booking a cruise through the Arctic. Watch orcas, humpback whales, blue whales and fin whales put on a show of a lifetime.

Many fall in love with the Icelandic horses. Despite their smaller frame, Icelandic horses are strong and spirited. Summer is the best time to go on a horse-riding tour through lava fields; if you’re lucky, you might even spot wild horses during your road trip.

East Iceland is home to around 6,000 wild reindeer; places to spot them include Djúpivogur and Egilsstaðir along the Ring Road route.

Shoulder season in Iceland: April-May, September-October

Spring in Iceland

During the months of April to May, travelers can still expect long days with 14 to 18 hours of daylight. Outdoor dining spots start to open up again after the winter months, with many locals stepping outside to enjoy the sunshine.

However, not all roads might be open; it’s best to check road conditions (especially for the F-roads or Icelandic Highlands) before starting a road trip. The popular Golden Circle stays open throughout the year.

Visiting Iceland in spring also means you get to see thundering waterfalls—due to large volumes of snow melting, waterfalls usually see significant flow during this time. Popular waterfalls include Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss in Southern Iceland , Gullfoss along the Golden Circle, as well as Kirkjufellsfoss , Godafoss , and Hraunfossar .

Spring is the time when you enjoy the best of both worlds: a slew of winter activities still available despite the beckoning sunshine, as well as summer activities without the crowds. Prices are also lower for both activities and lodging during this season.

Fall in Iceland

Fall sees the landscape transform into a vibrant palette of red, orange, and yellow. Especially striking fall spots include the Thingvellir National Park , Hraunfossar , and Thorsmork Valley .

Temperatures tend to vary quite a bit during this season; it’s usually sunny with temperatures ranging from 51 to 58℉ in August, before dipping to 40℉ as the months inch towards winter. Rain is a little more common in the fall months, so it’s best to layer up with a good water-resistant jacket. You can still enjoy 11 to 13 hours of daylight each day.

Don’t miss out on the novel Réttir event, where locals gather to herd sheep back from the mountains to their farms. In August, one major highlight is the dazzling fireworks night at Southern Iceland’s Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon . Iceland also has its own version of Oktoberfest in September , and the popular Iceland Airwaves music festival taking over Reykjavik in November.

There’s just so much to do in fall, including mushroom and berry picking. The season offers a gastronomic feast, with some of the freshest produce and meat available. Even better, keep a lookout for many special offers that airlines will roll out during this season, as well as package tour promotions.

Low season in Iceland: December-March

Winter is Iceland’s low season, but don’t dismiss it just yet: winter is often a dream for many photographers when Iceland’s already magical landscapes are covered in a blanket of glistening snow. Road trips during this time, however, may not be the best idea, with multiple road closures and icy roads—only seasoned drivers should attempt the journey.

Daylight hours are drastically shorter: expect five hours or less. However, there are still plenty of winter activities you can pack in. Ice caving starts in November, with many flocking to the crystal blue ice cave at Vatnajokull Glacier . Glacier hiking is also popular during this season.

December to January is a time of celebration in Iceland, with bonfires and firework extravaganzas popping up all around the country. You’ll get to enjoy all this without having to jostle with other travelers.

You can even go snorkeling at Silfra , Iceland’s most popular snorkeling site, in the dead of winter. The water temperature hovers around 35℉, so a drysuit will keep you warm. Or for the less adventurous, unwind in the hot springs like the Blue Lagoon .

Northern Lights season in Iceland

Peak Northern Lights season lasts from September to March. Clearer skies, especially in September, mean you have a higher chance of spotting the Northern Lights.

Join a minibus tour or go on a cruise . Many tour operators allow you to rebook the experience for free if you didn’t catch the Northern Lights on the first attempt.

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When is the best time to visit Iceland?

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The best time to visit Iceland to see the northern lights is between November and February, when the nights are longest. The best time to visit if you want to explore inland by 4x4 is from July, once the snow in the highlands has thawed.

Iceland is a great year-round destination, enjoying a temperate maritime climate. Summers are short and cool, with temperatures between 48°F and 55°F. Winters are long but surprisingly mild, with highs of 37°F and lows of 28°F.

Unexpected rain can fall throughout the year, so always be prepared for chilly, wet and windy days. Winter blizzards may delay travel plans, and late thaws in the highlands might affect travel in the summer. But, as Icelanders say: If you don’t like the weather, just wait a bit.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Iceland

Visiting Iceland in January

The days are short and the nights are long, which improves your chances of seeing the northern lights in the dark, unpolluted skies. Festive lights continue to illuminate towns and cities — a welcome remedy to the wintry darkness. Daytime sightseeing needs to be planned carefully to coincide with the limited hours of sunlight.

Events & Festivals

• The Þorrablót winter festival is celebrated from mid-January to mid-February. Þorrablót is an old pagan festival originally celebrated by Iceland’s early settlers over a thousand years ago. Revived in the 1800s, it brings local people together to eat, drink, dance and sing traditional songs. A Þorrablót menu consists of traditional Icelandic delicacies, including hákarl (fermented shark), smoked lamb and svið (boiled sheep’s head). This is typically accompanied with brennivín — a schnapps made from potato and caraway. During this time, many restaurants will offer these dishes on their menus.
• The northern lights can be viewed in Iceland between early September and early April, if skies are clear and aurora activity is forecast. Chances of seeing them are best between November and February, when the sun sets before 6pm and the nights are longest.

Visiting Iceland in February

The days grow longer at a surprisingly rapid pace, which gives you more time for sightseeing and makes it easier to travel farther into the Icelandic countryside. At this time of year, you can take trips to see orca in the waters surrounding the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and there are still good opportunities to witness the northern lights strobing across the sky.

Visiting Iceland in March

The Spring Equinox officially marks the end of winter in Iceland, when daytime lasts as long as night-time. This means you can spend longer each day exploring Iceland’s geothermal landscapes and natural landmarks. There’s still a chill in the air, and winter activities such as ice caving are still popular. Although the nights are shorter, it’s still possible to see the aurora borealis late in the evenings.

Visiting Iceland in April

April is one of the quieter times to travel, so you’re better able to enjoy sights away from the crowds. Although the Icelandic summer has officially begun, it might not feel like it — rain and snow are still common and lots of summer activities, including puffin viewing, cycling tours and many boat trips, are not yet in operation. As the snow begins to clear, the grassy landscape turns pale yellow.

Visiting Iceland in May

The summer season officially begins, with temperatures becoming milder and more activities opening up throughout the country. The main road around the island — sections of which are often closed during winter storms — is usually fully accessible. Seabirds, including puffins, return to Iceland and you can see them nesting in large numbers on the rugged coastline. Toward the end of the month, lambs seem to be everywhere you look and lupine flowers bloom lilac across the countryside.

• From mid-May until mid-July, Iceland basks in 24 hours of daylight. The sun dips below the horizon at midnight and rises again at 3am, and it’s never truly dark between these hours. Instead, a pinkish twilight lingers in the sky.
• Kirkjubæjarklaustur Chamber Music Festival takes place in the summer (month varies) in southern Iceland, on a magnificent lava-field landscape.
• The Reykjavík Arts Festival takes place for three weeks each year in May or June. This is a major event in the capital that invites hundreds of artists from around the world to showcase their work.

Visiting Iceland in June

The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year, bringing 24 hours of daylight to Iceland as the sun barely dips below the horizon. By now, the landscape is a vivid green, which contrasts sharply with the country’s dark volcanic rock, making for some excellent photography opportunities. Some activities, including quad biking tours and whale watching, take advantage of the midnight sun and are available late into the evening. Plenty of festivals take place in the summer throughout the country, celebrating local arts, food and culture.

• Humarhátið festival takes place in late June or early July in the little town of Höfn, in southeast Iceland. Focused on local seafood, this is a great opportunity to try freshly caught Icelandic langoustine.

Visiting Iceland in July

Snow in the highlands has thawed and roads through Iceland’s wild interior are now accessible, offering opportunities to explore inland by 4x4. One of the most popular times to travel, visitors come to experience the midnight sun and Iceland’s vast array of outdoor activities. You can expect larger crowds at major attractions such as the Golden Circle, Lake Mývatn and along the south coast.

Visiting Iceland in August

The weather is mild and rainfall remains comparatively low. Visitors to Iceland reach their peak, so hotels should be booked well in advance and you can expect the country’s well-known landmarks and attractions to be busy. Many seabirds begin their migration south from the middle of August, so plan your travel at the beginning of the month if you’d like to see them.

• Fiskidagurinn Mikli (Great Fish Day) takes place on the first or second Saturday of August in the fishing village of Dalvík, in north Iceland. This is a big social event, with outdoor seafood buffets, and free fish soup offered in locals’ homes.
• Síldarævintýri (Herring Adventure Music Festival) is hosted in the town of Siglufjörður, in north Iceland, over the early August public holiday. In the past, the festival has featured a broad range of Icelandic music, from folk singing to Sigur Rós.
• Menningarnótt (Culture Night) is celebrated in Reykjavík in August. This is a major event, with roads closing for street performers and fireworks in the evening.

Visiting Iceland in September

As the peak summer season winds down, this is a quieter time to travel in Iceland while the whole island is still generally accessible. September is usually cooler and wetter than July and August, but many summer activities and attractions are still available. As you drive through the countryside, look out for the annual réttur taking place, when farmers round up the 800,000 sheep that have been roaming the land during the summer.

Visiting Iceland in October

October is typically the wettest month in Iceland, but there are noticeably fewer visitors compared to the summer months. Many summer activities are no longer available and adverse weather increases the risk of road closures, so travel is now generally limited to the south coast, north and west Iceland.

Visiting Iceland in November

As the nights draw in, the northern lights often appear in the sky. Seasonal winter activities, such as ice caving, are also now possible. Temperatures are cool, but there’s still plenty to do to lure you outdoors and the cold air makes the geothermal steam rising from hillsides become more pronounced.

Visiting Iceland in December

A wonderful time to visit Iceland, when festive lights illuminate towns and cities. Toward the end of the month, the sun lingers on the horizon for just four hours, creating a strange, ethereal twilight. Tours need to be planned carefully to make the most of the limited daylight hours, and, weather permitting, the northern lights frequently make an appearance.

• In the 13 days before Christmas, troll-like Jólasveinar (‘Yule lads’) are said to visit children one-by-one in the days leading up to Christmas. Formerly, they tried to play tricks on people, but now they leave children small gifts. You might see the Jólasveinar projected onto buildings in Reykjavík, and they visit some hotels to leave small tokens for guests.
• New Year’s Eve is the biggest party of the year in Iceland, when bonfires and fireworks are lit, and Icelanders gather to share the warmth and sing. Belief in elves (huldufólk) is widespread in Iceland and they’re said to be most active at New Year, so it’s common for Icelanders to reference them in songs at this time of year.

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Best Time to Visit Iceland: Month by Month Breakdown

Iceland is a land of extremes, a land where tumultuous natural forces have shaped the landscapes over thousands of years, and a land where the extremes can be both beautiful and deadly.

The weather is no exception and being located so far north, and so close to the Arctic Circle, the weather in Iceland can be as extreme as the volcanoes and the geothermal energy.

Winter is almost perpetually dark, the weather is bitterly cold and storms can smash through the country at a moment’s notice.

Summer though is beautifully sunny, with the midnight sun allowing locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors long into the night, while fall and spring can see both sunshine and snow in equal measure.

Deciding the best time to visit Iceland can be a challenge because the seasons dictate not only the weather but when you can see the Northern Lights, when the best time for whale watching is and of course, when you, personally, are going to make the most of it.

To help you to plan your trip to the land of ice and fire, here’s our guide to the best time to visit Iceland.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Iceland (Travel Guide)

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Spring in Iceland

Spring can be the best time to visit Iceland if you don’t mind a little unpredictability but are looking for the opportunity to experience everything that the country has to offer.

Spring in Iceland roughly begins mid-March and ends in June, and you can experience the cold weather disappearing, as the snow melts and life returns after the long winter.

But anytime through the season, you can expect the weather to turn for the worse, and although the skies might be clear in the morning, by the evening you could be caught up in snowstorms, particularly if you are traveling further north.

March and April are the most unpredictable months in Spring, and if you are road tripping around the island, while it’s very doable, you’ll need to be flexible because many roads can still be snowed in, and you might find driving to be treacherous if you aren’t used to the conditions.

May and June become much better in terms of driving, with longer days and less snow to contend with when you are on the road.

Many travelers want to see both whales and the Northern Lights when they are in the country, and Spring can be the best time to visit Iceland if you want both of these experiences. The whale watching season begins in April when the waters begin to warm up and the whales begin migrating.

In Husavik, in the north, the season begins as early as March when you can find these beautiful animals in what is for good reason called the Whale Watching Capital of Iceland.

The Northern Lights are best seen during winter when the skies are at their darkest, and conditions are optimal, but being located so far north, you can, in fact, see the Aurora Borealis well into Spring as well, if you have a spot of luck.

In late March and early April, if you are in remote locations, with dark skies, then you still have the chance to see this natural light show in the sky. If you want to catch both the whales and the light show, then March and April are great times to try your luck.

But just be warned, although you might leave happy, you could equally leave empty-handed.

Our Top Recommended Tours for Spring:

• Golden Circle Afternoon and Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik
• Small-Group Golden Circle Tour and Secret Lagoon Visit from Reykjavik
• Southern Iceland Glaciers, Waterfalls and Beaches Day Tour
• Golden Circle Super Jeep Tour and Snowmobiling

Summer in Iceland

Summer is usually considered to be the best time to visit Iceland because this is when the weather is at its best and when the days are at their longest.

This is the liveliest season to be in the country, and from June through to September, you’ll experience excellent weather and will find the country is booming with festivals and events.

Summer begins officially on June 21st, the summer solstice and the longest day of the year, and you’ll be able to experience the unique phenomenon of the Midnight Sun through June. The further north you are, the longer the days are, and as you get closer and closer to the Arctic Circle, the sun almost never sets through summer.

Summer is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to go hiking, horseback riding or even just road tripping. The weather is perfect for enjoying the great outdoors, and you can even go walking under the Midnight Sun.

If you are road tripping, conditions are perfect, particularly if you don’t want to experience the icy road conditions of other seasons.

Whale watchers will want to visit in summer too because from May to September, the whale watching season is at its peak. You can join tours from Reykjavik, or better yet, from Husavik in the north, and you’re almost guaranteed to see whales during this season.

Things to note about visiting in summer though, are that this is the busiest time of year in Iceland, and prices can be much higher than in the shoulder seasons.

Accommodation and car rentals in the country are limited too, particularly outside of Reykjavik – this is a small country after all! – so make sure to book things in advance if you have a particularly itinerary you want to stick to.

If you are looking to see the Northern Lights, then obviously, summer is not the best time to visit Iceland !

Our Top Recommended Tours for Summer:

• Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik
• Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik
• Mountain Helicopter Tour with Summit Landing from Reykjavik
• Small-Group Silfra Snorkeling and Lava Caving Adventure from Reykjavik

Need to book a car for your road trip adventure? We use Discover Car Hire for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

Fall in Iceland

Fall is generally considered to be from early September until late October or early November, but towards the end of the season, you might well already believe it to be winter, given the cold weather and abundance of storms.

The start of fall can be the best time to visit Iceland if you are looking to avoid the crowds, enjoy lower costs and still have great weather.

The days in September are still relatively long, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the great outdoors still, while the roads are yet to be snowed in by fierce weather, and you can drive in safety across the country.

The further north you go, the colder it gets in fall, but if you are still looking to see whales on the open ocean, then in Husavik the whale watching season is still in full swing in September, although you’re much less likely to see these marine mammals.

Towards the end of fall, when the days begin to get shorter, then you might be lucky enough to see the Northern Lights too. If you head north, and go remote, to areas devoid of light pollution, then you’ll maximize your chances of seeing this natural phenomenon in the night sky.

As you reach November, the weather will begin to be consistently cold and snowy, and you’ll find that the country begins to prepare for the long winter ahead.

Our Top Recommended Tours for Fall:

• Landmannalaugar Hot Springs and Hike in the Highlands
• Glacier Hiking and Ice Climbing Small-Group Adventure from Reykjavik

Winter in Iceland

Winter can be the most challenging time of year to visit Iceland, but it can also be the most rewarding. This is when the weather is at its most extreme, and when the days are at their shortest.

Even in the capital, Reykjavik, during December there are on average only 4 hours of daylight, while Akureyri, the largest city in the north, sees just 3 hours of daylight.

The weather is generally bad too, with snowstorms and low, low temperatures consistent throughout the season, with averages being mostly below freezing across the country.

Winter lasts from November through to March, but if you’ve never seen such extremes, and been so close to the Arctic Circle in the coldest months of the year, then visiting during this season can be a memorable experience in itself.

Winter isn’t all bad though, and for many, it is, in fact, the best time of year to visit. As well as being the quietest and least touristic season, winter is also the best time to catch the Northern Lights.

For many, this is a once in a lifetime experience, but being a natural phenomenon, you can never predict exactly when and where the Aurora Borealis will appear, and you’re at the mercy of luck.

You can, however, maximize your chances of seeing this natural light show, and the biggest way to do that is to time your visit to Iceland right. Winter is the best time to see the lights, and as long as you can endure the cold nights, then you will also have the darkest skies.

Between November and February, conditions are absolutely optimal, and even just driving outside the capital, you are likely to see the Northern Lights.

Traveling further north and getting remoter in winter will give you the chance to see the lights at their most dazzling though, but of course, beware of the weather, because storms can obscure the night sky too and leave you disappointed.

For adventure travelers, winter can be the most exciting time of year to visit Iceland, but you’ll need to be prepared for the bad weather and be able to deal with extreme cold to be able to make the most of what can be, an incredibly unique experience.

Our Top Recommended Tours for Winter:

• Landmannalaugar Winter Tour
• Northern Lights & Geothermal Baths Adventure
• Northern Lights Tour in Iceland

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , that gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.  

More on Iceland:

• Driving in Iceland – Know Before You Go
• 21 Best Day Trips from Reykjavik
• Golden Circle Iceland: 7 Stops You Cannot Miss
• 15 Incredible Things to do in Reykjavik
• Silfra Iceland: Unreal Snorkeling Between Continents
• South Coast Iceland: Must Visit Places
• 9 Unreal Northern Lights Tours
• 7 Excuses to Visit Iceland

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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EUROPE , ICELAND · February 22, 2019 Last Updated on March 16, 2024

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ICELAND?

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When my friends ask me which destination is my all-time favourite, Iceland is always top of my list. Their next question is when is the best time to go, so I wanted to put together a guide to help plan your visit!

I love Iceland. It’s a country of extreme diversity. From vibrant cities with trendy cafes and bars, to vast rocky landscapes and gigantic glaciers blanketed in snow, to wild black-sand beaches and moss-covered lava fields formed by volcanic eruptions many hundreds of years ago.

The weather is equally as intense. It’s not uncommon to experience sunshine and rain showers at the same time, followed by dark storm clouds rolling in with heavy snow and brutal wind squalls. The wild, unforgiving landscapes of Iceland give off the impression that nothing would survive here. Yet cute puffins migrate here to nest in the spring and summer time, and little unique-looking horses have adapted to withstand the harsh winter conditions.

Iceland’s seasons are vastly different. So how do you decide which season is the best time to visit Iceland? The answer to that question is far from simple. There are so many things to see and do in Iceland during the Spring, Summer, Winter or Fall.

This article breaks down the best time to visit Iceland in terms of some of the key highlights and activities that Iceland has to offer. This will help you to decide which time of year to plan your trip. However, if like me, you fall head over heels in love with Iceland, you might end up planning a second or third visit to experience this beautiful country at different times of the year.

BEST TIME FOR A ROAD TRIP 

It’s possible to drive all the way around Iceland’s Ring Road, a 1300km loop around the island, any time of year. The summer-time (June to September) offers the best driving conditions, particularly if you don’t have a lot of experience driving on snow and ice.

However, the most popular road-trip in Iceland is the Golden Circle and South Coast routes . Doing this trip in 7 days is possible. But if you have your heart set on doing the full Ring Road trip around the entire island, you will want to allow at least 10-14 days.

During the winter, extra caution must be exercised while driving. It’s advisable to hire a four-wheel drive and brush up on your ice-driving skills.  Many roads are well-cleared of snow, and the Icelandic Met Office provides daily updates on road conditions. However, during extreme snow-storms or heavy wind, many roads will be closed.

The F-roads (mountain roads only accessible by 4WD) are generally closed in the winter. So, if you plan to go exploring the mountainous parts of Iceland, then you’re best to plan your trip between mid-June to mid-September. F-roads should generally be avoided unless you have experience driving on all-terrain.

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BEST TIME TO VISIT ICELAND TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS 

The best time of year for viewing the Northern Lights is November to March. However, it’s possible to see them as early as mid-October up until early April.

However, the one warning I give most people about the Northern Lights in Iceland is, there are no guarantees. It’s not uncommon for storms and cloudy skies to get in the way of optimal Northern Lights viewing conditions. It’s not advisable to visit Iceland solely to see the Northern Lights, as you might end up disappointed.

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE BLUE LAGOON 

The Blue Lagoon is open to visitors year-round. However, the Summer (June through to August) offers extended opening hours because of the midnight sun. The least crowded hours are generally closer to closing time. Unfortunately, you can’t just show up and get in anymore. The popularity of this unique tourist attraction means you now need to book online before arriving.

Winter can also be an excellent time to visit as it’s possible to witness the Northern Lights while floating in the lagoon. Late-Fall can bring strong winds and colder temperatures, which might make you think twice about stripping down to swimwear.

If you’re looking for a less-crowded Blue Lagoon experience, consider staying at the Silica Hotel or The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon. These hotels have their own private lagoon for hotel guests only.

There are also many naturally-occurring hot springs in Iceland which can be accessible all-around, but they can sometimes difficult to reach in winter if the only accessible route is via F-roads. Always be careful bathing in unknown hot springs, as the temperatures can sometimes reach boiling point.

BEST TIME FOR GLACIER ACTIVITIES 

Snowmobiling.

Snowmobiling on the glacier is an incredible experience and one that is offered year-round, depending on the weather. Visibility can change from being perfect to having zero visibility in a matter of minutes.

But when is the best time to book this activity? Spring is usually the best time for snowmobiling on the glacier, with plenty of fresh snow and the weather getting better at this time of year. We went snowmobiling on Langjökull in the middle of Winter and were blessed with absolutely perfect conditions and even got to see inside an ice cave.

Glacier Hiking & Ice Climbing

Glacier Hiking and Ice Climbing are year-round activities in Iceland. However, glaciers are very active, moving all the time, more so in the Spring and Summer when the weather warms up and the ice begins to melt. For this reason, tours may be cancelled at any time if it is deemed unsafe.

Ice Caving is generally only offered during the winter. The Ice Caving season ends around the beginning of Spring, which is when the caves begin to fill up with water and are inaccessible. Be aware that on occasions the Ice Caving tours may also be cancelled during the Winter, if intermittent heavy rains may render the caves unsafe to enter.

BEST TIME TO VISIT ICELAND TO GO CAMPING 

The absolute best time to go camping in Iceland is Spring and Summer. However, Summer-time brings with it a lot of campers, so expect the campgrounds to get crowded.

When I visited in winter, we met a couple who were campervanning around Iceland, and we thought they were crazy, as the temperature drops to around -10°Celsius (14°F) on average at night. However, on the positive side, they managed to witness spectacular Northern Lights displays right from the comfort of their bed.

BEST TIME TO SEE THE PUFFINS 

The puffins begin to migrate back to Iceland’s coastal regions during the Spring, between mid-April and mid-August. You can go on a Puffin-watching tour and see these cute birds nesting in their natural habitat. The best spots for puffin viewing are Vestmannaeyjar, Lundey-Akurey, Látrabjarg, Vigur Island, Dyrhólaey, Papey, Tjörnes and Grímsey.

BEST TIME TO VISIT WATERFALLS 

The intensity of the waterfalls ramps up during Spring as the ice begins to melt with the warmer weather. This offers spectacular viewing and an opportunity to walk around behind Seljalandsfoss, which cannot be accessed during the winter due to slippery ice.

BEST TIME TO GO DIVING IN THE SILFRA FISSURE 

Diving or Snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure is a must-do activity on many people’s Iceland bucket list. In fact, it is a great activity to do any time of year. The water temperature actually only varies around 2°C (34°F) between summer and winter. So, if you have your heart set on swimming between the two tectonic plates, then you’re going to have to squeeze into a dry suit and withstand near-freezing conditions no matter which season you choose to do it.

BEST TIME TO GO WHALE WATCHING 

April to October is a great time to go Whale Watching because of the longer days and better weather conditions. But the best months are June and July, when visits from humpbacks, minke and blue whales are not uncommon. Orcas tend to visit the west coast around Snaefellsnes peninsula during the first half of the year.

BEST TIME TO GO HORSE-RIDING 

Who doesn’t want to see the cute and fluffy Icelandic horses? Better yet, try getting up close to them on a horse-riding tour. While some tour operators shut down during the winter, mainly in the North, many operators are open year-round. Again, tours are always dependent on the weather forecast, so you’ll have to be flexible.

BEST TIME TO VISIT ICELAND TO AVOID THE CROWDS 

Iceland has become such a popular tourist destination that the question is not when to visit to avoid the crowds, but where. Summer (June to August) is by far the peak tourist, associated with a rise in accommodation occupancy and rates.

To avoid the crowds in Iceland during peak season, consider exploring the North Ring Road section or the West Fjords. Fewer tourists visit these areas, as they take longer to reach by car. Or perhaps you can plan a hiking trip to get away from the crowds. Also, with the midnight offering up to 21+ hours of daylight, the Summer offers the perfect opportunity to visit Iceland’s main tourist attractions when most people are asleep.

December through February (Winter) are the least crowded months, which also means accommodation is cheap. Be mindful that these months also have the least daylight hours. Iceland has firmly cemented itself as a winter destination over the past few years, so it’s not unusual to see crowds at the most popular tourist attractions during winter. The winter also offers some spectacular scenery for photographers .

Theoretically, the Fall (September-November) is classed as the off-season. So, this is also an excellent opportunity to avoid crowds and save a bit of money on accommodation.

SOME ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR YOUR TRIP TO ICELAND 

• What to Pack – Layer-up! No matter what season you visit, be sure to pack thermals, sweaters, jackets and weather-proof clothing. Think raincoats, water-proof puffer jackets and weather-proof pants. Ski Gear is also a good option. Iceland’s weather is unpredictable any time of year, so it pays to be prepared.
• Getting Around – Outside of Reykjavik, public transport is limited. Unless you book on a tour bus, you’re best to hire a car (or 4WD) and self-drive around Iceland.
• Language – Icelanders speak Icelandic, but English is also widely spoken.
• Safety – Iceland is a very safe country. If you’re driving on the roads in the winter, be mindful of the risks of black ice and take it easy.
• Budget – Iceland is not a budget-friendly destination. With the increase in tourism, prices have become quite expensive over the years. Be sure to do some research and factor the higher costs into your daily budget.
• Book Early During Peak Tourist Season – Even when we visited in Winter, I found some hotels were fully booked out as early as 5 months before.
• First Time Visiting Iceland? – Read more tips on what to expect when visiting Iceland for the first time here .

What To Know For Visiting Iceland

Iceland visas.

Iceland is part of the European Schengen zone , which typically provides 90 days of free entry every 180 days to visitors from many countries. This means you can enter Iceland and travel between other European countries for up to 90 days per stay.

Be sure to check the EU Schengen website for the latest information for your specific country.

The currency used in Iceland is the Icelandic Króna (ISK) . The current exchange rate is approximately 1 USD to 125 ISK. You can check the latest EUR exchange rate on Google .

While traveling, our number one tip is to use a free Charles Schwab Debit Card which gives unlimited worldwide ATM Fee Refunds and the true exchange rate.

Best Tours In Reykjavik

Some of the best tours and things to do in Reykjavik are:

• Blue Lagoon Entry with Roundtrip Transfers
• Golden Circle and Northern Lights Combo
• South of Iceland Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik

Where To Stay In Reykjavik

We recommend booking your hotels on Booking.com to get the best rate and many hotels offer free cancellation in case your plans change.

Some of the best reviewed hotels and accommodation in Reykjavik are:

• Hlemmur Apartments : Luxury furnished apartments on the main Laugavegur street with full kitchen so you can cook your own meals.
• Skuggi Hotel Reykjavík : Modern hotel in central Reykjavik with full breakfast included.
• Midgardur by Center Hotels : Luxury hotel with on-site restaurant walkable to many central attractions.

AirBnB is also a great option in Reykjavik and you can save $45 using our link to sign up!

Best Time To Visit Iceland

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what activities you would like to do. For the Northern Lights, plan to visit between November and April, or between June through August for the longest days.

For more detail, be sure to read our complete guide on Best Time To Visit Iceland depending on what you would like to see and do!

Best Books About Iceland

Read more about Iceland before you go! Some of the best books about Iceland are:

• DK Eyewitness Reykjavik (Travel Guide)
• Lonely Planet Iceland
• Night Train to Reykjavik

What Power Adapters Do You Need

Iceland uses standard 2 prong Type C and Type F adapters also commonly used throughout Europe.

You can buy a universal adapter that will work in any country and has extra ports for USB cables to charge your phone and other devices.

We also always travel with a portable battery pack which is great to keep your phone charged on long journies.

Transportation In Iceland

• Public Transportation: Iceland has extensive public transportation primarily by bus. Be sure to check the public bus website for routes and any closures.
• Rental Cars : If you want flexibility, we recommend renting a car at the airport. This provides the easiest way to see certain landmarks. For more information, read our article on Why You Should Rent A Car In Iceland .
• Uber: Uber is not available in Iceland. However, there are metered taxis readily available from taxi stands or the Hreyfill taxi app . 

Travel Insurance

Our top recommended travel insurance companies for Iceland are:

• World Nomads : Comprehensive coverage for medical, travel delays, and electronics.
• SafetyWing : Cheaper monthly coverage primarily for medical, starting at $37 for 4 weeks of coverage.

For more information, read our article on why you need to book travel insurance for your next trip!

More Articles About Iceland

• Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
• 10 Things You Can’t Miss In Reykjavik, Iceland
• 11 Most Instagrammable Places In Southern Iceland
• 8 Stops Not To Miss On Iceland’S Ring Road
• Road Trip Inspiration: 10 Must-See Places In Southern Iceland
• 9 Reasons You Should Stay At The Silica Hotel, Iceland
• How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland
• Iceland: A 3 Day Itinerary In The Land Of Fire And Ice
• Iceland Road Trip: 5 Epic Hidden Gems To Seek Out
• Why You Should Rent A Car In Iceland
• 7 Ways To Go Off The Beaten Path In Iceland

I hope this article helped you plan the best time to visit Iceland based on what you want to do, and I highly recommend everyone visit this amazing country at least once!

We hope that this article helped you plan the best time to visit Iceland. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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We Are Travel Girls Senior Contributor Amanda Twine  of FlyStayLuxe.com   Connect with Amanda  Instagram  | Facebook  | Twitter  | YouTube  | Pinterest

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February 22, 2019 at 6:39 am

This made me want to go back to Iceland! Great and informative read ?

Katherine Mendieta says

February 23, 2019 at 10:52 am

This was such a great article Amanda! It’s been two years since I visited Iceland and now I have the urge to return.

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HIDDEN ICELAND

Come & Find the Best of Iceland

BEST TIME TO VISIT ICELAND

When is the best time to visit to iceland this is probably our most frequently asked question. closely followed by, when should i book both questions are great but often more difficult to answer than you might think. believe it or not, iceland is a year round destination so read on to learn about the midnight sun, northern lights, blue ice caves, glaciers, volcanoes, atlantic puffins and lots more., the question of ‘when is the best time to visit iceland’ is a surprisingly complex one. it can also be quite a personal one too., over the years, we’ve found that although there are many reasons to travel to iceland, our guests tend to have one big dream that they want to fulfil while in the country. it is only once an itinerary has been created (and the guests have chatted to us) that they realise there is far more to see and do, at any time of year., so the question, ‘when is the best time to travel to iceland’ should really be ‘ when should i travel to iceland so that i’m able to achieve my dream’, hopefully, by the end of this article, you will know when the best time of year for you to travel to iceland is and when you should start planning (and booking). next step is to match the package option that fits..

A Brief Overview Of The Seasons

Each season has its own unique traits that should be considered before starting to plan your trip. read beyond this to get a more comprehensive understanding of when you should travel to iceland and to know how far in advance you should book your trip., 1. springtime tranquility | april & may springtime is the quietest time of year to travel. whales, puffins and other migratory birds start to appear across the country, and the free-roaming sheep with their new-born lambs are let loose into the wilderness. it tends to be a little more affordable  too, based on hotel prices., 2. summer under the midnight sun | june, july & august in summer, you are treated to the warmest time of year and up to 24 hours of daylight. the average temperature sits around 14 celsius (57 fahrenheit) so you’ll never be retreating for the shade after a long glacier hike or nature walk. this is a very family friendly time of year. the highlands open up to adventure, and basking under the midnight sun is something that you’ll remember for the rest of your life., 3. autumn northern lights hunting (september and october) autumn brings with it an increased chance to see the northern lights . it’s still (relatively) warm compared to winter and you get plenty of daylight to match evening northern lights hunts with invigorating daytime activities like glacier hikes., 4. the long winter with newly discovered ice caves (november to march) shorter days, colder temperatures and plenty of snow turn this dark time of the year into a winter wonderland . the average temperature sits around 0 celsius (32 fahrenheit), thanks to the gulf stream, though we are prone to the odd very cold snap too. the biggest draw is the mighty blue ice caves that become safe to visit at this time of year..

When Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland?

1. spring | april & may, the quietest (and most affordable) time of year, springtime is the quietest time of year. even the easter holidays don’t bring as big an influx as you might think, with hotels in reykjavík tending to have space even quite late in the planning process. that’s not to say the rest of the year is overcrowded but if you’re really looking for solitude with good levels of daylight, then coming at this time of year is spot on. although many services remain the same price all year round, hotels and car rentals do tend to drop their prices quite dramatically in some cases., warmth and sunlight, by mid-april the days are already long, with the sunset not being until around 9pm . by the end of may, you are treated to 24 hours of daylight. it’s also warmer than winter as you can imagine, but you are still likely to be treated to snow capped peaks and the odd dusting of snow . you can still technically see the northern lights in the first few weeks in april too, though this shouldn’t be the sole reason to travel at this time of year since there’s less nightime to enhance your chances., wildlife re-emerges, especially in april, the wild reindeer can still be spotted at sea-level, near the jökulsarlón glacier lagoon in the south east (summer is a little too hot for them, so they migrate into the mountains). twenty different whale species return to iceland to mate. athough the atlantic puffins are spotted in spring too, the bulk of them don’t arrive until late may. the flora re-emerges with plenty of colours popping up across the landscape. but the big draw in terms of wildlife is the birthing season of the lambs . there are more sheep than people, so you’ll have a pretty high chance of seeing the odd new-born lamb., best activities to do at this time of year, there are lots of great activities you can take part in at this time of year. from an adventurous glacier hike to whale watching to tranquil horse rides. however, the one activity that works best at this time of year is snowmobiling . the glaciers (where you do the snowmobiling) are truly covered in thick snow all the way down to the edges of the ice. sure, the dead of winter works too in terms of snowfall, but in springtime you’re more likely to get clear skies and nicer weather (pivotal for those breathtaking panoramic views)., when should i book, around 3 months in advance is generally fine, even for private tours . this is one of the few times of the year that you can book relatively last minute and still have a high chance of us being able to help. the earlier the better is always safest of course, but in general if you request a tour for april and may, more than a month in advance should be able to provide something wonderful for you..

2. Summer | June, July & August

Midnight sun and warmth, witnessing the midnight sun is an experience unlike any other. from late may until mid-august, nighttime disappears…literally. this gives you unlimited amounts of time to exlore the country. the sun will still set, but only briefly, making sure any encroaching darkness is held at bay. don’t worry though, most hotels have black out curtains to help you sleep. watching the sun set around midnight only to rise again shortly after is something only iceland and other arctic regions can offer. all of this direct sunlight brings warmth with it too which makes this a great time of year for multi-generational families ., life is flourishing, in stark contrast to winter, summer is bursting with life. the vibrant alaskan lupine bloom across much of iceland’s flat lands, temporarily turning the landscape purple. over 10 million atlantic puffins call the icelandic cliff sides home and over 20 different whale species come to the shores to mate too. add in the release of the 480,000 or so sheep into the wild and you’d be forgiven for forgetting that you are on an isolated island on the edge of the arctic circle., the warmth and sunlight of summer allows you to do most things that iceland has to offer but the defining activities that are best in summer are puffin tours, glacier hikes and travelling into the highlands . this is also the best time to travel around the ring road, whether that’s on a private tour , guided by us, or a self-drive itinerary, if you prefer to have more flexibility., at least 6 months in advance to be safe. a request any later than january/ february can still be planned, but accommodation becomes a bit of an issue on certain dates in some locations. summer is the busiest time of year for sure, but with the entire ring road, highlands, and islands opening up to tourists, there is certainly plenty of room to spread out. last minute requests for summer travel is possible but is often relegated to making reykjavík your base and potentially asking you to join our small group tours ..

3. Autumn | September & October

Northern lights, by autumn, nighttime has truly returned and with it – the northern lights . sure, you can see the northern lights all through the winter and even into early april. but, nearer the equinox it is statistically the most likely time for you to see them. the reason for this anomaly is not fully explained but a mix of slightly more particles entering the atmosphere and a higher chance of having clear skies and you won’t care ‘why’, only that you get to see the light show for yourself., not ‘too’ cold yet, these months are quite funny in terms of weather. you can get days warm enough to wear a t-shirt and other days where there’s a big dump of snow. that’s half the fun of autumn. this is the time of year where the trope, 4 seasons in one day, is most obvious. most activities are still achievable in these months and you can even get around the island by car without too much worry in terms of ice on the roads, until around mid-october., sunsets and rainbows, our guide & safety manager lovingly refers to autumn as rainbow season . the sun drops low in the sky early at this time of year and gives rise to plenty of chances for rainbows. especially when visiting one of the many waterfalls iceland has to offer. if you aren’t lucky enough to see a rainbow, one thing is for sure – those autumn reds, oranges, yellows and mossy greens, really make the landscape pop ., northern lights tours are of course number one here, though not in the way you would expect. the sun still doesn’t set until around 8pm, meaning full darkness doesn’t arrive until closer to midnight. so the best way to see the aurora is not to join a late-evening tour but rather to join an overnight tour where you sleep in secluded locations around the country (our specialty). then you can just step out of your hotel at any time in the night and look up., early september can still have plenty of sold out hotels in the more remote parts of the country early in the year, so aim to book 4 or 5 months in advance just to be sure. october is less of a problem and can actually be requested relatively last minute depending the dates. just be aware that luxury accommodation isn’t as prevalent outside of reykjavík, so if you have your heart set on all luxury accommodation trip, then get in touch as early as you can just in case there are some sold out nights..

4. Winter | November to March

Winter wonderful, you will notice that this ‘season’ is longer than the rest. it would seem iceland’s winters can last a long time. obviously, some might say. but actually, thanks to the gulf stream, the temperature skates around the 2 degrees celsius mark most of winter (with plenty of cold snaps and warm fronts keeping us on our toes). this means you will still likely get a winter wonderful but not the constant sub-zero temperatures that you might have expected., in fact, the reason this season is so lengthy and well defined is for one the activities that we consider a must see – the ice caves effectively, from november to march (and even into april) it is considered safe to enter these beautiful blue ice structures. they can range from snake like tunnels to mighty cathedrals . every season is a little different from the last., despite autumn being the ‘best time’ to see the northern lights , winter is also a phenomenal time too. aside from the festive period, it tends to be quite a quiet time too. even though you’re slightly less likely to see them than in autumn, it does get dark as early as 3:30pm on some days, so there’s plenty of nighttime to play with. this is the time of year where your dinner time can often get interrupted by an excited tourist shouting that they’re ‘ right outside the window’ ., it’s already been said – ice caves and northern lights . but actually, sitting in a warm hot pool with snow surrounding you is also a favourite of many of our customers too. the contrast between the hot and cold is just as breathtaking as seeing the aurora, though maybe in a slightly more visceral way., excluding the festive period (20th of december to 10th of january), you can be quite relaxed with this. november and january are the quietest times (similar numbers to spring) but even in february and march, which are considered key ice cave times, we’re likely to be able to be able to say yes to most requests as late as 3 months out. last minute request are welcome too , though we might just need to be a bit creative with the order, hotel choices and activities..

Activities that can be done all year round

Still undecided here is a run down of some of the activities that can be done all year round:, glacier hikes can be enjoyed all year round. the pristine blue ice in winter makes for some great pictures but the crunchy white ice in summer allows for more adventure. the temperature has little effect on the enjoyment of a glacier walk., horse riding is great fun regardless of whether you are trotting through fresh snow, black sand or volcanic lava fields. the horses are lovely and warm regardless. just don’t call them ponies, they get offended., south coast sights. this area is the least affected by the changing weather of the seasons. although the rest of the country is open year round, with the exception of the highlands, the south coast tends to get less snow and ice on the roads. thankfully our award winning 2 day tour to the jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is also in this region., the golden circle and snaefellsnes are must see locations. snaefellsnes has the most photographed mountain in the country (game of thrones anyone) and the golden circle has a geyser that erupts every 10 minutes. both are easily accessible all year round, each possible as a day trip from reykjavik., have you decided when is the best time to visit iceland yet, hopefully, one of these seasons has stuck out a little more than another for you. if you now have a preferred time of year in mind or want even more details you can get in touch any time . let’s start planning the perfect itinerary together., check out our private tour page for a custom planned itinerary..

Hi, I am Ryan Connolly; Co-Founder and Marketing Manager of Hidden Iceland.

I’ve guided in multiple countries around the world and stepped foot on all 7 continents. my passion for the outdoors, science, nature, glaciers and volcanoes has led me to study and  write  about iceland. i have been interviewed in  forbes ,  conde nast traveller  and  travel pulse  on various subjects..

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Best Time to Visit Iceland: Your Complete Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland or really inspired to come to this Nordic gem, you may be wondering when is the best time to visit Iceland. One of the country's many charms is being a year-round destination, but your personal choice can influence when to visit Iceland! 

Whether you want to visit in winter or summer , or come for a particular interest of yours, we have it all below.

Iceland is a country that is beautiful and interesting all year long. This is why, at Nordic Visitor, our travel consultants have crafted tours for both the winter and summer seasons.

There are countless fantastic activities and sights to see and do, so depending on your interests or your available time to come, we have you covered with this useful guide.

• When is peak season?
• When is best for weather?

Exploring Iceland in summer

Exploring iceland in winter.

• Visiting Reykjavík
• Birdwatching
• Touring the Golden Circle
• Seeing the northern lights
• Experiencing the midnight sun
• Taking stunning photography
• Honeymooners
• Enjoying the Blue Lagoon and spas
• Dipping in hot springs
• Whale watching
• Attending events and festivals
• Combining Iceland and Greenland

When is the peak season in Iceland?

Peak season for travelling to Iceland is during the summer, between June and August.

If you visit at this time, it'll coincide with the mildest weather, summer holidays, the most daylight, and the most activities available. In recent years, the winter months have also been very popular, with people flocking to Iceland to see the northern lights.

• For popular itineraries around Iceland, check out these best-selling tours
• Visit in  June , July or  August  to see Iceland at peak time

When is the best time to visit Iceland for the weather?

Iceland isn’t as cold as its name may suggest and enjoys a temperate climate all year long. That’s not to say that the weather doesn’t change quickly over the course of a single day.

For that reason, regardless of the time of year, make sure to have wind and water resistant layers on hand.

The mildest weather of the year in Iceland is, of course, during the summer months.

If you’re looking for maximum sunlight, or even to experience the midnight sun (when the sun doesn’t fully set below the horizon), the best period to come is in June, July or August.

The shoulder months of May and September are also ideal for those who prefer a quieter holiday, as they usually attract less crowds. The weather is usually still mild, although a bit more unpredictable.

• Visit Iceland in  May  or  September  to enjoy the advantages of the shoulder months

Of course, maybe the perfect weather for you is a crisp and snowy day. Then the winter months will be the time when you want to come and enjoy the best that Iceland has to offer.

The months between October and April define the winter season and shoulder season. You may also enjoy visiting in late December to join in the Icelandic New Year’s festivities.

You can find out more about the weather in Iceland in our handy climate and weather conditions guide .

What is the best month to visit Iceland?

While the weather may be a big draw for some, you may want to come to Iceland for a particular month or season, whether that’s when you have holiday or when you want to enjoy a certain activity.

Summer in Iceland is from June until August. The shoulder months May and September are very popular among travellers as well.

The summer is by far the most popular with visitors. This is because, at that time of year, the temperature is generally milder, there is more daylight to take advantage of when sightseeing, and there are more activities available.

There is a lot of festivals and events as well, you can read more about that below.

You’re also more likely to enjoy a road trip in the summer as you’ll have more daylight hours to drive. If you only have a week, you can still drive the Ring Road but it will involve longer daily driving distances.

The roads are also less likely to be shut due to the weather conditions at this time.

The one downside some people may find is that, as summer attracts the most visitors, it means more crowds at popular attractions. If you prefer a quieter time, you could also visit during the shoulder season, the months of May and September .

For the most beautiful colours in nature, but also a quieter time for tourism in Iceland, I would recommend September. The fall colours are amazing and that is my favourite time to explore the country. - Helga Guðmundsdóttir, Travel consultant for Iceland

• Take a look at our summer tours in Iceland

Winter is slowly attracting more and more visitors. Quieter months such as October and November are a great time to visit Iceland. This is especially true if you want to experience the long nights and darkness of the northern parallels.

The enchanting natural phenomena that are the aurora borealis deserve attention too. As do the wintry landscapes of the higher altitudes and North Iceland.

While Iceland is a year-round destination, there are fewer activities available at that time of year, with less daylight to take advantage of them. For a road trip, we would recommend staying around the west and southern coast of Iceland. There is plenty to see here, including the Golden Circle. 

You could also fly up to the capital of the north Akureyri. Experience this beautiful region and see a true winter landscape.

• Visit Iceland October  and  April  to enjoy the Icelandic winter
• By coming in  December  you could join in the Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations

During many months of the winter, it’s also possible to tour the famous Ring Road if that’s what you’re looking for. However, be aware that the weather can often make the roads and driving conditions unpredictable and difficult.

Driving during the winter months in Iceland is not for everyone.

This is why we do not recommend a long road trip in the winter if you have never driven on snow and ice.

If you are going to embark on a winter driving tour in Iceland, you should be comfortable driving in what can be challenging conditions. This includes snowstorms, icy roads and little daylight.

• To tour the island at your own pace, browse our winter self-drive tours of Iceland
• Don't fancy driving in winter? Choose a small group tour and let an experienced driver take you to Iceland's star attractions

If you do want to come in the winter, make sure to dress for the Icelandic weather. We have a handy packing guide here to help you with that.

When is best time of year to visit Iceland depending on your needs?

As we’ve mentioned many times again, there is no bad time to visit Iceland, there is something beautiful to see and something interesting to do all year long.

Below we’ve highlighted the most requested interests and activities and when is the best time to go to Iceland for them. Look up the one you’d love to experience while in Iceland:

Best time to visit Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík is a colourful, cultural, and buzzing city throughout the seasons. From year-round festivals, to New Year’s Eve celebrations, and world-renown attractions, visiting Iceland’s capital is always fun.

The best time may depend on what you want to do during your visit. Most museums, such as Perlan the top attraction in town, open their doors throughout the year. The swimming pools, heated by geothermal power, are also visited by locals and visitors all year long.

To attend specific events, you may want to visit at a particular time. Attend Iceland Airwaves in November, the Culture Night in August, or the Secret Solstice in June. Summer has the largest concentration of festivals if you want to feel the lively atmosphere.

December is a great time to visit to get in the festive spirit. There are fireworks, bonfires and more to celebrate Christmas and mark the start of a new year.

• Enjoy a city break  in Reykjavík to take part in the lively culture

Best time to visit for birdwatchers

If you love birds and birdwatching, you will be spoiled in Iceland!

While it is possible to birdwatch all year round, many of the bird species are migratory and thus only spend a portion of the year in Iceland. This means some periods of the year are indeed better for birdwatching, or for spotting certain kinds of birds.

Generally speaking, the best time for birdwatching is considered to be between mid- April and the end of June . This is the time of the year that sees the most bird species in Iceland, and long daylight hours gives visitors ample time to admire them.

There are five species that people often seek out and we’ve made a wee guide for you:

There are 8 to 10 million puffins that spend their summer in Iceland every year! That makes up nearly 60% of the world’s Atlantic puffin population. These adorable birds can be spotted from late April, with the best period to see them being between May and early August .

Harlequin duck

Since Iceland is the only country in Europe where this colourful duck species can be found, it is an exciting sighting!

There are around 2000 to 3000 pairs that breed around the country. While they stay in the sea around the island during the winter, in the spring they travel up rivers for their nesting season. They can, for example, be found in Ölfusá river.

Barrow‘s goldeneye

90% of the Barrow’s goldeneye around Lake Mývatn and stay there year-round. Around 150 birds can also be spotted on the south coast during the winter, but they head for Lake Mývatn for breeding season around mid- March .

It’s important to note that the Gyrfalcon is a fully protected species and so, no specific location can be given about their breeding location.

While it is not commonly sighted, when it is spotted, it is usually around Lake Mývatn due to the abundance of prey, and around Reykjavík and the Reykjanes Peninsula in the winter.

If you are lucky enough to spot one, please be aware that approaching nesting sites is not permitted. Neither is sharing information about their breeding sites.

Brünnich’s guillemot (also known as thick-billed murre)

In the winter, you can spot this species in the north and east coast of Iceland. But if you happen to be here in the spring or summer, you may be able to observe a Brünnich’s guillemot around the various seabird cliffs around the country.

They are commonly spotted between the end of March and the end of July . As of where to go, we recommend:

• Lake Mývatn area, which is one of the most popular for birdwatching. That’s because it is well-known for its diverse birdlife, especially duck species (there are 14!).
• Látrabjarg bird cliff, located in the West fjords of Iceland, is the largest bird cliff in Europe at 14 kilometres long and up to 441 metres high. There you can get a closer look at millions of nesting sea birds, such as puffins, razorbills and guillemots.
• Hafnarhólmi in Borgarfjörður eystra offers visitors the perfect opportunity to see puffins.

Best time to visit Iceland's Golden Circle

We would recommend visiting during the shoulder season to have the best experience of the Golden Circle and its attractions.

Even though, it is worth mentioning that the Golden Circle is beautiful at all times of the year. In the winter, the landscape will be enchanting, dusted in snow and frost. In the summer, you can enjoy longer walks in the landscape and spend more time at each site.

However, at the peak of summer, you may find that you’re not alone at Þingvellir, Strokkur, or Gullfoss.

Indeed, as they are the closest sights to Reykjavík, they are easy to visit on a city break. It means these locations are usually more crowded than others, especially so at the height of summer.

For a bit of peace and quiet, visit on either side of the summer, in April, May, September or October.

• To travel along the Golden Circle and other iconic sights, look up these  classic holidays to Iceland

Best time to visit Iceland for hiking

Hiking in Iceland will be an unforgettable experience as the mountains aren’t just beautiful, but also full of stunning trails. It is also extremely dependent on weather due to the accessibility of those hiking trails.

The best time to visit Iceland for hikers will be between May and September. It is during these summer months that the trails are accessible and when there is the most daylight to take full advantage of the trails and Iceland’s natural beauty.

Hiking in the highlands  of Iceland is often limited by the opening of the road leading into the highlands after winter. This is all dependent on weather conditions and location, but will normally open from mid-June.

This also means that some hiking trails high up the mountains may still have snow in May. It is not recommended, as an example, to hike to Stórurð in May because it is usually covered in snow at that time. 

Please always be careful as a hiker to not put yourself in danger and always be ready for the weather conditions.

My favourite time to hike in Iceland is in midsummer when everything is green and lush. It can be even better if it’s raining, then the fragrance of nature is so fresh. During this time of year, the highlands turn into a fairy tale and the options are endless. Hills, lava fields, river banks... It doesn’t matter, it’s simply gorgeous! –Perla Magnúsdóttir, Travel consultant for Iceland

• To take on hiking or other adventurous endeavours in Iceland, check out our active tours

Best time to visit ice caves in Iceland

To explore and experience the surreal atmosphere of an ice cave, come in winter. Between mid-November and early March, you can book an adventure inside the Katla ice cave, located inside the Kötlujökull glacier. You could also walk through parts of the largest glacier in Iceland, Vatnajökull .

Visit the second largest glacier on the island, Langjökull, with the  Into The Glacier  experience. This is a man-made tunnel taking you into the depths of the glacier.  

Or, if you’re coming in summer and still want to experience an ice cave, pop by the Perlan in Reykjavík. This must-see attraction offers you the chance to walk through an artificial ice cave, made as a replica of a real glacier.

Best time to visit Iceland for northern lights

Aurora borealis are one of the most wonderful natural phenomenon to witness and many visitors come to Iceland just for this!

If this has always been on your bucket list, the season to see them is from mid-September until the middle of April, when darkness makes it more likely. But as these are naturally occurring, it means no one can guarantee you will see them.

Sighting depends both on northern lights activity and weather conditions, because it requires both dark and clear skies. You can read more about the northern lights and how best to capture it on our dedicated travel guide .

• Browse our  northern lights tours in Iceland
• Related : explore these northern lights tour packages  for other Nordic countries

Best time to visit for the midnight sun

To experience the midnight sun, you must visit Iceland during the height of the summer, between May and July. The longest day of the year is at the summer solstice on the 21 June, which means this is when midnight sun peaks in Iceland.

Although you may want to bring an eye-mask to sleep!

• To experience this phenomenon, check out  our midnight sun tours  in Iceland

Best time to visit Iceland for photography

Photographers will love Iceland regardless of the time of the year, month, or location. The Icelandic landscapes are breathtaking and extremely photogenic, if we can say so ourselves!

Moreover, when the weather is on your side, the light in Iceland is great for photographers!

During the winter months, photographers who look for wintry landscapes and snowy mountain tops will have plenty to enjoy. There is also one added bonus to winter photography in Iceland: blue and golden hour being during the day!

Yes, due to its location in the north, in the winter the sun doesn’t rise very high in the sky. This creates a golden hour that lasts for the duration of daylight (all dependent on the exact date).

Location wise, if you want to take some photos in the east and north of the country, you may want to visit during the summer and shoulder season, when the roads are more accessible and reliable.

And fear not, photographers will also be spoiled for golden and blue hour during the summer! At the peak of the summer months, they both can last for hours!

• Travel with a private, local guide at the wheel to see highlights of Iceland and take stunning photos on the way

Best time to visit Iceland for families

Coming to Iceland with your family may depend on school or work holidays, or what you’re looking for as an experience. Do you want to see the northern lights or experience the midnight sun? Look up our above categories to get a better idea.

What we do recommend is coming in the summer as there are more kid-friendly activities available at that time.

This includes whale-watching (it is also available in winter, but the seas are rougher at that time), hay cart puffin tours, and boat tours on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon . Something to interest all young adventurers!

Usually, I recommend travelling in the summer time with children, because the long daylight hours give families flexibility to stop frequently and for a longer time. - Kristín Halldóra Halldórsdóttir, Travel consultant for Iceland

We also recommend generally slower-paced tours where you can spend more than one night in one location. This is especially true in winter as you may have to change your plans last minute if the roads are closed due to the weather conditions.

• Discover amazing ways to see Iceland with your children with  our family friendly tours

Best time to visit Iceland for honeymoon

Honeymoons all depend on you! What are you planning for? Straight after your wedding or a bit later, when you’ve had time to save and prepare for your dream trip?

If you’ve always dreamed of a honeymoon in Iceland, the best time to come, may depend on what you want out of it.

• Do you want to go hike up one of the iconic Icelandic mountains? Summer.
• Do you want to visit the remote Westfjords ? Summer.
• Do you want to cosy up together and admire the northern lights? Winter.

We believe that travelling in the wintertime can be very romantic! There are fewer people in Iceland at that time of year. This means there are less visitors at each highlight, like the Golden Circle, giving you more time together in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Finally, our travel consultants would recommend spending at least more than one night in the locations you’re visiting, to give you the chance of a leisurely stay with your partner.

• See our romantic and honeymoon trips around Iceland

Best time of year to visit the Blue Lagoon, Iceland, & other spas

One way to take advantage of Iceland’s geothermal energy as a tourist (except for the wonderful sight of volcanoes of course!) is to go for a dip into one of the many geothermal pools.

The Blue Lagoon , Iceland’s most famous spa, is a must stop for many visitors. It is open all year round, but those won’t don’t like the cold may prefer to go in the summer.

However, it isn’t the only geothermal pool you can experience on your trip. There are many around the country, including natural hot springs and geothermally-heated public pools in the city of Reykjavík. Most are open all year long.

The winter dips won’t be for the faint hearted as you’ll have to shuffle in your bathing suit from the changing rooms into the water in the cold wind. But it's ultimately worth it!

• To take some time to enjoy the spas, look up these relaxation tours in Iceland

Best time to visit Iceland for hot springs

The beauty of hot springs is that they are warm all year long. That means you could visit at any time of the year and enjoy bathing in the warm, relaxing waters.

Summer is the best time to go hiking to remote areas where you’ll have hot springs to yourself. You may also find it easier to get into your swimming suit and walk in and out of the water during the summer.

The winter isn’t without its advantages though. You could warm up after a day of snowy excursions. Enjoy the difference between the cold air and hot water and admire the snow drop from your cosy spot.

• Take in the sights and dip in all the hot springs you want with an Icelandic road trip

Best time to visit Iceland to see whales

The summertime is the best time to come to Iceland if you want to whale watch. Taking usually a few hours, the excursion is a great addition to any trip around Iceland, especially for those who love to see wildlife. The best location is Húsavík in the north of Iceland.

The northern peninsula Snæfellsnes is also home to orcas if you would like to go orca watching.

Best time to visit for fun events and festivals

There are interesting festivals and events all year long in Iceland. But the summer sees most of the events of the year, as the good weather brings about a festive spirit!

There are also many festivals being held in smaller towns. Verslunarmannahelgin is the most popular weekend of the summer when there are celebrations in many towns around Iceland.

In June there are two big celebrations. The Iceland National Day marks Iceland’s independence from Denmark on the 17th June 1944. It is celebrated on the 17th June and is one of the most popular events of the summer.

The second is an outdoor music festival to celebrate the summer solstice. Held in Laugardalur in Reykjavík, the Secret Solstice Festival sees Icelandic and foreign bans perform under the midnight sun.

One festival we recommend is also Bræðslan, held in July every year in Borgarfjörður eystra in the east fjords of Iceland. It is a music festival where Icelandic and foreign bands perform.

Bakkagerði (the town in Borgarfjörður eystra) is one of the most remote villages in Iceland. It is located amongst a beautiful fjord with colourful mountains towering over the small town.

• Pair a stay in the city with some day tours in the gorgeous countryside with one of these multi-day tours in Iceland

August brings a good mix of interesting events in the capital, with the Reykjavík Pride, the Reykjavík Marathon and the Reykjavík Culture Night.

The latter is especially exciting as it celebrates Iceland’s diverse cultural scene. There are countless free events through the evening, including outdoor concerts, film screenings, art and photography exhibitions, street performances and a firework display by the harbour to close the night.

There are also two major festivals in the autumn that we need to mention. The first is Reykjavík International Film Festival (or RIFF) which features films from both Iceland and abroad (the winner takes home a Golden Puffin!). It is held every year between mid-September and mid-October.

The second is one of the biggest music festivals in the country, Iceland Airwaves. It is held every year in early November and if you love discovering new bands, this is for you!

And last but not least, you could always join us in December for New Year’s Eve celebrations !

For more information about events in Iceland, look at our annual events guide .

Best time to visit Iceland and Greenland

The best time to combine a tour to both these glorious Nordic islands is to travel in summer. Although you could visit at any time of the year, flights to Greenland from Iceland can be affected by severe winter weather.

For that reason, book your Greenland and Iceland trip between June and August. At this time, you’ll also enjoy nicer weather and longer daylight hours for more sightseeing.

You can bask in the glow of the midnight sun while admiring glaciers, icebergs, and more.

• Have a true Nordic experience by pairing Iceland and Greenland in one exciting trip

Did you find the perfect time for you to book your Iceland adventure? Or maybe you’re still not sure? Either way, get in touch with our Icelandic travel consultants . Based in Reykjavík, they’ll use their local knowledge to help you figure it all out.

All our itineraries can be tailored to you as well, so don’t hesitate to ask if you want to do something special. You can stay in a location longer, add excursions, day tours, or even spa days to your stay.

Our goal is to make sure you have a great time in Iceland!

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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The Best Time to Visit Iceland: Pros & Cons of Every Season (2023 edition)

Not sure when to visit Iceland? We’ve got you covered with the pros and cons of every season, plus our verdict on the cheapest time to visit the island nation. 

2023 could be the best year ever to visit Iceland. The tourists are yet to reach pre-pandemic peak levels but Iceland is fully open for business. The perfect combo. In the last 10 years, Iceland has risen to become one of the most desirable tourist destinations on earth. The ethereal landscapes, stunning scenery and friendly people make it an attractive and approachable place to visit. The land of Fire & Ice is an Instagrammable paradise, with flowing waterfalls, rugged fjords and bubbling natural springs.  But before you whisk yourself away to this popular island nation, you’ll want to do some thorough research. The various seasons and times of the year can really determine what’s available. Some of the top sights, like Iceland’s restorative hot springs, are open all year but glorious natural phenomena like the northern lights and midnight sun are best viewed during specific months.

You’ll want to read on and bookmark this guide to get the best (and worst) times to visit Iceland in 2023.

What’s in this guide:

• Winter in Iceland
• Spring in Iceland
• Summer in Iceland
• Autumn in Iceland

Best time to see whales in Iceland

Best time to visit the hot springs, best time to visit for northern lights, worst time to visit iceland.

• Cheapest time to visit Iceland

FAQs on the best time of year

There’s an Icelandic season for everyone

Let’s get one thing clear, Iceland is beautiful all year round. There’s no ‘bad season’. Every time of year has something different to offer the visitor. But what’s important is that new or returning visitors choose a time of year that suits their personal needs and itinerary.

Some are seeking the quieter, darker months, to explore Iceland at its most extreme. Winter months offer colder weather and limited road access but reward the visitor with a greater chance of seeing natural phenomena such as the northern lights. Summer months are more predictable and accessible but bring with them larger crowds of tourists.

Although Iceland is cosied up against the Arctic Circle, it does have four distinct seasons. But winter, spring, summer and autumn are also categorized as shoulder, low and high seasons. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each season:

Winter in Iceland 2023 (low season)

With Iceland being positioned so far north, the winters are usually extremely cold and dark. The winter season is the longest one, stretching from November, through to March. This is the time when Iceland is at its most consistently extreme.

The traditional Norse calendar includes April in the winter months and to this day, Icelanders celebrate a national holiday in April to signal the start of the longer and mildly warmer days. Strictly speaking though, winter runs its course to March. On the shortest day of the year—the 21 December—Reykjavik has over four hours of daylight, with the sun rising at 11:22 and setting at 15:29. But at the beginning of November, Reykjavik gets eight hours of daylight. And in early March, the day lasts for over 10 hours.

Pros of winter:

• See Iceland in its purest and most extreme form. The land of Fire & Ice is mesmerizingly beautiful with snow capped mountains, ethereal winter light and clear dark nights.
• Increase your chances to see natural phenomena such as the northern lights, midnight sun and Iceland’s vast array of naturally formed glaciers which grow larger at this time of year. 
• Much of Iceland local life moves indoors, which turns the village cafes and bars into cozy retreats from the aggressive climate. You’ll make more friends this way!
• The world-renowned Icelandic hot springs are arguably at their finest in the winter months, nothing feels more restorative on a frosty day than slipping into a local ‘hot-pot’.
• The island nation is much quieter in winter (low season), which means top-attractions such as Blue Lagoon, South Coast and Golden Circle will be quieter. Accommodation is potentially more affordable in these months, with lower demand. 

Cons of winter:

• We can’t underscore enough how challenging the weather can be during these months. Temperatures will plummet, winds can whip up and the days are almost entirely dark from beginning to end. Not for the faint of heart.
• The road options are far more limited. The F-roads (which you’ll need a 4×4 to navigate) can be closed off during the winter months, which limits your areas to explore. 
• The daylight is reduced in winter, with 8 hours per day in November, 4 hours per day in December and rising to 10 hours per day by March. 

Temperatures in detail:

• Temperatures can plummet to -30 degrees celsius outside of the city, with wind chill making it feel colder still.
• In Reykjavik, temperatures between October and March range between 0.6°C (33.1°F) and 4.9°C (40.8°F).

Read more : > Things to do in Iceland during snowstorms

Spring in Iceland 2023 (low season / shoulder season)

Spring in Iceland is like a flitting effervescent dream, one minute it breaks the grip of winter and the next it slips away to welcome the crowded summer months. Spring in Iceland spans the months of March, April, May and early June. It’s a wonderful time to visit the island nation, with March and April bringing longer days, melting snow and more accessible roads.

You’ll also enjoy better weather without the throng of visitors that descend on Iceland’s big-ticket attractions during the high season.

Pros of spring:

• Days are getting longer, with March seeing 10 hours of daylight. Whilst the weather is still unpredictable, the melting of snow starts to make roads and attractions more available. If you want to drive the entire Ring Road, April onwards is a safer bet.
• April sees a national holiday in Iceland to greet the start of the longer and mildly warmer days. 
• Arguably the best time of year to visit Iceland’s many beautiful waterfalls. The melting snow will flow into these beauties causing them to rage and flourish after their winter entrapment. Skogafoss Waterfall is a real must-see!
• Prices in spring are in general lower than in winter and summer because this time of year has less demand from tourists. To make the most of this, look to visit before May as the prices will begin to peak again for the high season.
• The back end of spring in late April and May brings about a greater chance to enjoy wildlife moments like whale and puffin spotting. 
• Easter is an important moment in the Icelandic calendar and visiting the island nation over this holiday could be a great way to celebrate with family and friends.

Cons of spring:

• The chances of seeing the northern lights begin to diminish from March onwards as the weather warms and increased visitors bring greater light pollution to the skies.
• With the early months experiencing weather spillover from winter, many of the F-roads are still inaccessible which means hiking off the beaten track, or tracking down less visited ‘hot-pot’ springs is still a challenge. 
• With the weather beginning to shift, expect wetter weather and increased mist when out hiking – bring a waterproof cover for yourself and your camera!
• In Reykjavik, temperatures between March and May range between 1°C to 6°C (33.8-42.8 degrees F).

Read more : > April weather in Iceland: what to expect for your travels

> Top 10 things to do in Iceland in March

Summer in Iceland 2023 (High season)

‘Summer in Iceland’, it almost sounds like a movie title. Visiting the land of Fire & Ice in the fairer season has many advantages, most of them attributed to warmer and longer days. ‘Warmer’ must be taken with a pinch of salt though, as the weather in Iceland can be uncertain all year round. Expect to experience all four seasons within one day.

The longer days and warmer temperatures do unlock a world of possibilities, with more roads and more big-ticket attractions open to tourists than any other season. It’s also a safer month for first-time visitors because there are fewer hazardous weather events. The height of summer, July & August, is the peak of the tourist season. That means you won’t be alone at famous sites along the Golden Circle or the South Coast. What this does mean, is a better time of year to go off the beaten path.

Pros of summer:

• Warmer days and longer days on average mean more time to explore and sightsee.
• The Icelandic highlands are impassable during the winter (low season) but in the summer, boy are they a sight to behold. Pack your hiking boots and you’ll be rewarded with mesmerizing views over vast glaciers, smoking volcanoes, snow-tipped mountains and more. Only 4×4 vehicles can access the highlands so be sure to explore our 4×4 Geysir range. 
• Ice cream dates are a huge thing in summer and Icelandic ice cream will give the best in the world a run for its money. A popular pastime with the locals and a must-do with loved ones, or on your own!
• The chance of spotting whales and puffins seriously increases. Puffins especially love to emerge from their 8 months at sea in late spring and early summer. 60% of the entire The Atlantic puffin population call Iceland their home.  
• One of the greatest and most unique attractions of an Icelandic summer is the midnight sun. This natural phenomenon appears thanks to Iceland’s position south of the arctic circle. A Ring Road voyage will ensure you see the midnight sun over the summer months of July & August. With 18 and 23 hours of daylight, you get extra-long days for exploring. 

Cons of summer:

• With the longer days, warmer weather and more accessible roads come the downside of more visitors. The summer months are definitely the busiest of the year. 
• Big-ticket attractions such as the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle and the capital Reykjavik will be far busier at this time of year, which can take some of the serenity away. 
• Crowds bring higher costs, which means accommodation and flights will be more expensive during these months. There will also be a higher demand for the highest-rated places to eat and stay, which means you’ll need to act fast.
• In summer, you can expect average temperatures of 10–13 °C (50–55 °F). 
• Summer in Iceland is guaranteed to be the warmest weather of the year. Every year, there are warm days in the low to mid-20s °C (68–77 °F).

Autumn in Iceland 2023 (High season/shoulder season)

Iceland in autumn is truly a visual masterpiece, an oil painter’s dream. If you plan on travelling to Iceland in late August through to early November, you’ll enjoy everything that autumnal Iceland has to offer. This is truly a beautiful time of year to visit the land of Fire & Ice and you should expect the golden brown of changing leaves, set against crisp blue (but cold) skies. Autumn also brings pleasant surprises such as an increase in wild berries and mushrooms, that with an expert’s advice, can be fun to forage.

Autumnal months bring an increased chance of seeing the northern lights. We’d advise not planning your trip around seeing them as there are better seasons to increase your chances.

Pros of autumn:

• The sheer beauty of the Golden Circle goes up a level in autumn, with the forestry turning to a golden red hue. Make sure to pack a good camera, this justifies a tripod shot! The main stops on the circle are the Golden Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Area and Þingvellir National Park
• During the summer months, Iceland sheep roam the mountains and fjords, fattening up on grass, herbs and other sheepy snacks. In autumn, they are herded and rounded up by the local communities – which is a sight to behold!
• Overall, tourist levels begin to drop from the end of August, with many families going back to school with the summer holidays over. This means autumn is a quieter season, which brings more space and time to the big-ticket sights such as the Blue Lagoon.
• Meet locals in the swimming pools. These are popular during the autumnal months before the deep cold of winter sweeps in.

Cons of autumn:

• For those looking to see the puffins, autumn is a season to avoid. The puffins will have long flown their summer nests by the time autumn sets in.
• Whale sightings also begin to decrease over autumn, they will still be around until mid-October but the chances of spotting one diminish as winter approaches. 
• Snowfall starts to ramp up over autumn, so if you want to avoid the falling white stuff, autumn probably isn’t the season for you.
• Autumn brings a daily average of around 8 °C (46 Fahrenheit), with the highest temperature on record reaching 18.5 °C (65 Fahrenheit).
• The weather in October in Iceland starts to descend into winter territory, as temperatures drop to 4.5 °C (40 Fahrenheit) as a daily average.

Seeing a whale is never a certainty, let’s get that straight. These mysterious, slow-moving creatures are elusive and take patience and persistence to see. However, the months of June and July (summer, high season) give you the greatest chance of seeing blue, humpback and orcas whales. In the north of Iceland, there’ll be a greater window to enjoy visits from humpbacks, dolphins and minks, which ply the Atlantic from May to August.

If you’re staying in Reykjavik, the good news is you’ll also have a good chance of seeing whales over June and July. A number of minke whales and dolphins have been known to surface around the capital’s waters. Orcas congregate in West Iceland along the Snaefellsnes peninsula during the first half of the year.

There’s not necessarily a straightforward answer to this one. Iceland’s hot water baths or natural spring baths are an essential part of local culture and a key reason why many tourists visit the island nation. In truth, the hot springs can be enjoyed all year round and despite winter being a more inhospitable climate, the hot springs seem increasingly welcoming when the winter winds are whipping around you. Autumn also brings snowfall, which can be a unique experience in a hot water bath.

In truth, winter or autumn are probably the best times. Summer months bring warmer weather and popular springs like the Blue Lagoon will be extra busy. The island also has hundreds of hidden “hot pots” that tap directly into the geothermal activity under its lava-ridden surface. These can be harder to find in winter due to less road accessibility, so keep that in mind.

Read more : > Ten of the best geothermal heated baths to visit in Iceland – any time of year > Best hot springs to visit in Iceland

Chasing the northern lights has become a cult movement in itself and Iceland is certainly a great destination to see them. There are three crucial components that a visitor needs to see the aurora borealis: a clear sky from light pollution, total darkness and an uptick in solar activity.

Viewing can be elusive, many visitors plan extensive periods in Iceland but still fail to catch a glimpse. Neon winds and transient clouds can often spoil the party, although these are spectacular weather spectacles in their own right. The best time to visit Iceland for the northern lights is the depth of winter, from mid-October through to March. Here you’ll find the most challenging weather conditions and the coldest nights but the drop in visitors means less light pollution and quieter roads to hunt them down.

Read more : > 7 Top Tips to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern lights in Iceland

The answer is, it depends on what you want from your Iceland trip.

Those chasing the midnight sun and longer hours of daylight will visit in the summer months, flocking to the big-ticket attractions such as the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon and the capital Reykjavik. They won’t stand a chance of seeing the northern lights.

Those hunting the northern lights, slip out to Iceland in the darker winter months, as the chances of seeing the natural phenomenon increase drastically. Travellers coming in the spring and autumn are looking for a blend of quieter roads and hikes, with more palatable weather than winter.

In short, the summer months bring crowds and more expensive accommodation, which make it on the surface the worst time to visit. But if you want to experience the long hours and the midnight sun, you’ll have to stomach the sightseers! If you are planning to visit during the summer months, consider more remote corners of the island like the Westfjords or East Iceland. Also, keep an eye out for puffins and whales!

Cheapest time to visit Iceland 

Despite popular belief, travelling to Iceland in 2023 will be relatively affordable compared to other European destinations. Iceland is yet to hit its 2018 peak of 2 million annual tourist arrivals, so 2023 could offer the perfect blend of full accessibility but quieter than usual seasons. 

Travellers from the United States and Europe frequently find flight deals to the island country — keep an eye out for sales on Icelandair, an airline renowned for cheaper flights to Iceland.

In short, as the winter months slide into spring, these are the cheapest months to visit. In the UK, US and EU, these months don’t overlap with any major holidays. The spring months also sit between the popular winter months for northern lights hunting and the summer months for the warmer and longer days. We’d recommend looking at flights, accommodation and Geysir car hire for spring 2023. At Geysir, we also offer an early-bird discount for those booking their car rentals 30 days ahead or more.

Read more : > How expensive is Iceland? 7 financial facts about visiting the country

• What is the best time of year for riding horses?

Iceland is famous for its incredibly cute (and stocky) horses, they’re a real treasured species on the island nation. May or September are the best months for riding these iconic horses. The weather is still fairer than in the winter months and the crowds have died down from the high season. Seeing Iceland on horseback is an incredible experience and these months are the best to do it.

• When is the best time for skiing?

Yes, you can ski in Iceland. We know, epic. The season officially runs from December through to April but we’d only recommend skiing in December or January if you are a real expert. The extreme weather conditions make it considerably more unpredictable and dangerous. February and March bring fresh snowfall (powder) and slightly longer days. However, these months are still extremely cold so be sure to research the correct layers and clothing to pack.

• When is the best time to visit the Blue lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon is a big ticket attraction and is available to view all year round. We’d recommend visiting it in the autumn or early winter months to enjoy a quieter Blue Lagoon and you’ll increase your chances of getting snowfall too!

• Will any of the roads be closed in the winter months?

Yes, many of the F-roads and sections of the ring road will be closed during the winter months. This means if you want to go hiking or off the beaten path, you’re better off waiting for autumn, spring or summer.

• Best time for hiking?

The Icelandic highlands in autumn are truly something to behold. That is all.

• What does it mean by high, low and shoulder season?

Whilst Iceland has four distinct seasons like the rest of Europe (winter, spring, summer and autumn) these seasons fall into three broader categories. The high season is the summer months, the low season is the winter months and the shoulder seasons are the spring and autumn months that ‘shoulder’ the low and high seasons.

Read more : >  19 tips for traveling to Iceland (2023 edition)

Conclusion: 5 things to consider:

• Are you going for the northern lights? If yes, go in the deeper winter months.
• Are you going to do a ‘little bit of everything’? If yes, visit in May or September.
• Are you a wildlife lover seeking whales and puffins? Then the summer months are for you.
• Do you hate crowds and want the ultimate Iceland serenity? Avoid the busier destinations during the summer months or visit in winter, autumn or spring.
• Do you want to keep costs as low as possible? If yes, visit in autumn or spring.

Start planning your next Iceland trip and explore this beautiful country at your own pace. At Geysir Car Rental Iceland, we have a rental car for all your road trip needs. Learn more about our cars here and book yours today. 

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Why You Should Go to Iceland in the Off-Season

From chasing waterfalls to watching the northern lights, Iceland is jaw-dropping—and a lot less visited—September to May. Our writer mapped out the perfect trip.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

There’s a saying in Iceland that’s sort of the country’s unofficial motto: Þetta reddast (sounds like “thetta rettast”). Like so many Icelandic words there isn’t a direct translation into English, but the essence of it is, “Ehhh, it’ll be fine…” My good friend Pétur Magnusson , who lives in Reykjavik, tells me, “It’s a big part of our national identity. It’s what we say when we’re rolling with what’s going on, in the face of any kind of adversity.” It’s not as passive as it sounds, though. Rather, it’s about accepting the things you can’t control, and pivoting to adapt and alter the things you can.

This is sage advice for first-timers visiting one of the most rugged and remote island countries in the world. To call the weather “unpredictable” would be generous, and you never know what strange obstacles you might encounter—hello, volcanoes. There have been ongoing eruptions in the town of Grindavik in southern Iceland and tourists have been advised to avoid that area. But the rest of the country is open and if you’re willing to embody the Þetta reddast spirit, you’ll have an incredible time in an otherworldly place, especially if you’re game to travel to Iceland in the off-season.

In October, I finally went to scope it out for myself. My aforementioned buddy Pétur was born and raised in Iceland before moving to California where he and I became friends in high school. He moved back during the pandemic, so I took the rare opportunity to see this majestic place through a local’s eyes. I spent two weeks traveling all over with him and other friends, pivoting a lot, experiencing weird weather, taking thousands of photos, and having an absolute blast. Here’s what I learned.

Why Travel to Iceland in the Shoulder Season?

An Icelandic adventure in the off-season (roughly autumn and spring) has a few distinct advantages:

It’s markedly cheaper.

While flights to Iceland are usually reasonable (I flew Iceland Air , which has a ton of direct flights from the U.S.), life on the ground can be pretty pricey. Accommodations, rental vehicles, tours, and just about everything that isn’t edible is less expensive if you don’t go during the summertime rush.

There are a heck of a lot less people.

Speaking of rush, you will see noticeably fewer tourists in the off-season. That translates to less-crowded trails, better photographs, and critically, easier last-minute bookings—key to your ability to adapt to changing conditions and still get the most out of your trip. More on that in a bit.

You actually get to see the Aurora Borealis.

You can usually only view the Northern Lights in the off-season. Iceland is so far north that during the summer high-season, the sky never gets dark enough for the aurora borealis to be visible. Iceland is one of the best places on the entire planet to see the lights, so if that’s on your bucket list, then bundle up and visit in the off season. (Stay tuned for specific recommendations on where to view them.)

Know Before You Go: Tips for Shoulder-Season Visits

Of course, visiting Iceland during shoulder season isn’t without its challenges. First and foremost, there’s the weather. Battered by the Atlantic Ocean just south of the Arctic Circle, you’re more likely to encounter rain, snow, and the notorious wind in colder months. Days are shorter, too, so you’ll want to get after it early.

Gear You Should Pack for Iceland

Layers will most definitely be your friend. And bring plenty. My daily outfit consisted of:

• Thermal tops and bottoms
• Thick wool hiking socks
• Pair of Altra Lone Peak hiking boots
• Smartwool hoodie
• REI XeroDry GTX Gore-Tex rainproof pants (also a good windblocker)
• Pair of Mountain Hardware Boundary Ridge gloves
• Super-warm wind/rain-proof Helly Hansen Tromsoe Jacket
• Wind-proof Mountain Hardware Dome Perignon Pro hat

With that kit, I was plenty toasty even when the rain came down nearly sideways.

Get Your Tech Dialed: Oh, and make sure you bring a power adapter, because Iceland uses European plugs. I’d recommend grabbing at least one or two, plus an extension cord with a three-way splitter so you can charge up more gadgets at once.

Now, the fun stuff.

Getting Around Iceland: The Best Transportation Options

Iceland is one of those countries where you really want to have your own wheels. There are buses here and there, but if you’re chasing rugged adventures, vehicular autonomy is a must. Of course you could join a tour group, but then you’re stuck with someone else’s agenda and schedule, and you’ll likely be surrounded by tourists.

Be Sure to Rent the Right Rig

Selecting a vehicle plays a significant role in where you can and can’t go. Once the colder months hit, the roads get icy and snowy. Even if you plan to stay in hotels and avoid sleeping in your vehicle, I strongly recommend you rent a rig with all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive that has burly tires to match and that comes with ample clearance. This will enable you to drive safely off the beaten path and check out more of the country, with even fewer tourists around during the day. (As a starting point, check out MyCar Iceland , which features a fleet of different 4WD-equipped Toyotas starting from $84 per day.)

For a Bed on Wheels, Consider a Campervan or 4X4 with a Rooftop Tent

Cruising around Iceland by campervan or a rig with a rooftop tent is another solid option. You’ll see tons of these on the road, as most outdoor adventure enthusiasts go this route. There are a lot of cool camp spots all around the island, and combining your accommodations with your wheels can be a huge cost saver. Just make sure the van you’re renting has some sort of heater (diesel or propane) and make sure it has AWD or 4WD (again, plus rugged tires and clearance). If you opt for a rooftop tent, make sure you visit in the (warmer) colder months, like September and May, otherwise sleeping on top of your car in winds and frigid temps will be brutal otherwise.

No matter what, read reviews of your outfitter before you commit, because some offer SOS services—in varying degrees of reliability—and you don’t want to deal with a breakdown when you’re deep in Iceland’s backcountry.

Most campervans and roof tent rigs come with bedding, a camp kitchen, stove and fuel, and a plug-in cooler, all of which help facilitate maximum autonomy. For a small upcharge, you can opt for a WiFi router, which makes booking last-minute campsites and navigation easier. (As a starting point, check out Rent for rooftop tent and campervan options. Prices vary.)

Stay on Top of Your Road Conditions Beta

Whichever vehicle you choose, the UMFERDIN website shows up-to-date road conditions and closures, and will save you essential time.

And be careful out there. Know your driving skills, and the limits of the vehicle you’re renting, and make sure the tires have tread that can handle the conditions you’ll encounter. If in doubt, don’t be an idiot and drive it .

Eating in Iceland: Always Expensive, Rarely Fantastic

Now would be a good time to mention food, and it’s not great news. For starters, grub in Iceland is almost universally pricey, owing largely to the fact that nearly everything has to be imported. It’s also not exactly a foodie haven (with some notable exceptions), so I’d recommend stocking up at a supermarket, like Bonus or Krónan, before you leave Reykjavik. Aside from staples like PB&J, grab an assortment of Icelandic yogurt (a.k.a. skyr). It’s delicious.

Don’t miss the cod jerky, either, which my friend Pétur says is commonly dragged across a tub of Icelandic butter when you eat it. (I tried it, and can confirm it’s indeed tasty.) I also found the sweetest, crunchiest carrots I’ve ever had in my life, and you’ll want to try (or at least force yourself to try) the divisive, salted black licorice (aka salmiakbitar ) the island is famous for.

When You Arrive in Iceland

You’ll land at Keflavík International Airport. If you’re coming from the U.S. you’ll likely arrive early in the morning on a red-eye, and may be very discombobulated. If so, and you’ve got the time, take it easy on your first day there by checking out the Reykjanes peninsula. Then, head to Reykjavik to scope out some of the museums and cultural sites (see below for specifics).

Must-Dos on the Reykjanes Peninsula

The 40-minute drive from the airport to the capital city is also absolutely stunning. You’ll pass fields of lava rock that seem to go on forever, and zip by the Instagram-famous Blue Lagoon . (Note: every Icelandic person I met rolled their eyes at it, though. It’s pretty, but overpriced, from $72, and loaded with tourists. It may also be closed depending on nearby volcanic eruptions.)

If you somehow manage to sleep on the plane and want to hit the ground running, there are a ton of cool spots right on the Reykjanes peninsula before you get to Reykjavik. Don’t miss:

• Seltún Geothermal Area , with sulfury, bubbling, steaming mineral pools
• Krísuvíkurberg Cliffs , with a sheer drop into the pounding ocean below. (It’s so abrupt it looks like the ground just snapped off.)
• Reykjanes Lighthouse , right next to the beautiful rocky shore of Valahnúkamöl—both well worth exploring.

I had an absolutely incredible lobster soup at the Café Bryggjan in Grindavík, but unfortunately between then and writing this piece, a cluster of earthquakes and several nearby volcanic eruptions has effectively brought the quaint fishing village to its knees. The town literally sunk several feet and now has a deep, 1.2-mile long fissure running through the middle of it. Its future is currently unknown. Again, why you have to be ready to adapt in Iceland.

Explore Iceland’s Capital: What to See and Do in Reykjavik

Hit Up a Street Vendor or Restaurant for a Hot Dog: When you get to Reykjavik, first things first: Get yourself a hot dog. I regret to inform you, my fellow Americans, that we have been surpassed in hotdoggery, and not by a little. Icelandic dogs have crispy fried onions, multiple sauces, soft buns, and snappy wieners. I ate them almost every day.

Scope Out the Historic Downtown: Work off the hotdogs by checking out the historic downtown area on foot. The Einar Jónsson Museum features some statues that would make Rodin jealous, and there’s a lot to see around the waterfront, including the massive Harpa Concert Hall.

Visit a Real Locals’ Hot Spring: If you’re craving some hot spring action, check out one of the dozens of public pools (like Laugardalslaug , for roughly $10 per entry) in Reykjavik. No, they’re not glamorous like the aforementioned Blue Lagoon, but all of the heating in Iceland (including hot water) comes from geothermal activity. The water is high in mineral content and it’s deeply soothing. The pools are a massive part of the culture there and they feature several hot tubs at different temperatures, saunas, cold plunges, and even some waterslides.

Just make sure you adhere closely to the showering instructions (i.e. shower naked beforehand and wash your whole body with soap). The waters there are considered sacred to the locals, and disrespecting them by not following pre-soak protocol is one of the rare ways to piss Icelanders off. The public pools are also for socializing, and you’re likely to meet some friendly folks who may offer you insider tips. Effectively everybody in Iceland speaks English, but if you learn a few basic phrases in Icelandic before you show up, it’ll go a long way.

Dine Out on Lamb Stew: For dinner, grab yourself lamb stew (known as Kjötsúpa, an Icelandic specialty), and pass out for the night before you hit the road bright and early.

The Shoulder-Season Adventure Itinerary for Iceland Newbies

As cool as Reykjavik is, that’s not what you came for, is it? Here’s what I did. My play-by-ear trip turned into a nice little loop through the west and south, though I recommend you use these ideas more for activity inspiration as opposed to an exact prescription. After all, no two days in the shoulder season are the same and there are endless possibilities. Here were my highlights:

Day 1: Hit Up Some Waterfalls and Hot Springs

Out of the city, our first big stop was Barnafoss, a couple hours northeast of Reykjavik, an utterly massive conglomeration of waterfalls. (FYI, “foss” means waterfall in Icelandic.) If there’s wind, wear your waterproof layers because the mist will soak you to the bone. It’s almost overwhelming to see so many waterfalls from one vantage point, and it’s an excellent place to work on your long exposure photography. (I recommend a tripod and a variable ND filter, along with a few absorbent lens-wipes.)

From there, we backtracked 20 minutes west and hit the natural hot springs at Krauma ($50). It’s not as Instagrammable as the Blue Lagoon (phones are actually discouraged at both), but you’ll find a nice array of geothermally heated tubs and saunas, along with traditional cold plunges. Plus, the mountainscape views are lovely.

Then, head west and drive out onto the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s a 55-mile strip of land that is basically a photographic sample platter of Iceland, including lava fields, waterfalls, epic black sand beaches, fjord views, hot springs, and the imposing Snaefellsjökull glacier volcano. I found the lava fields to be particularly gripping, with bright green moss covering an endless sea of black boulders.

We spent that night at the Fosshotel in Hellnar (“Oh hell nar,”) which was modest but clean, and it had some gorgeous ocean views (from $125 USD a night in the off-season).

Day 2: Hike the Rugged Coastline

From there we set out to the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula stopping at a few viewpoints around Londrangar, where you can stand atop some of the most rugged coastline you’ll ever see, featuring massive blue waves pounding jagged volcanic rock spires.

Make your way down to Djúpalónssandur Beach and the Djúpalón Lagoon, where you can hike along a shore covered with smooth, marble-like pebbles and a pool that looks like a prehistoric creature could emerge from it at any moment. This whole area gives strong “Land Before Time” vibes.

After that, we headed back east along the northern border of the peninsula, stopping at the stunning Bæjarfoss waterfall just outside of Ólafsvík. My buddy Pétur didn’t even get out of his car for that one. There are roughly 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, many of them jaw-dropping, and apparently this wasn’t that exciting by his local standards.

We also swung by the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, on the northernmost part of the peninsula, where we were greeted with a rainbow, and intense wind. We spent that night at the Hotel Varmaland in Borgarnes (from $250), where I had a deliciously savory lamb steak for dinner.

Day 3: Trek to Less-Visited, Off-Road Waterfalls

Our next day was all about chasing more waterfalls. The first stop? The small but isolated Fitjarfoss. We were the only ones there, and it was incredibly tranquil. That was just a warmup, though, for the far more challenging four-mile hike to Glymur Falls, which is the second tallest waterfall in the country, at a staggering 650 feet. It’s a slippery and steep hike that involves at least one river crossing and a few scrambles over significant exposure—we’re talking hundreds of feet straight down to the rocky river below. It’s not for the faint of heart, but absolutely gorgeous on the ascent.

Unfortunately, the crossing was washed out when we visited, so we hiked up the near side of the river as far as we could go. Luckily, Pétur had a drone that could fly the rest of the way and get some great shots. Still, it was 100% worth it.

We then made our way to a gorgeous complex of outdoor hot springs called Laugarvatn Fotana Geothermal Bathsa (from roughly $35 per adult). It’s right on Laugarvatn Lake so we alternated between hot soaks and saunas and natural icy plunges—the perfect remedy for our aching joints.

Day 4: Visit the Highlights of the Golden Circle

The next part of our plan was to take a ferry out to the stunning Westman Islands, but nature had other ideas. 60 mph winds and 18-foot sea swells not only made the passage unappealing, but impossible, as ferry service was canceled for several days. But this is where having more options in shoulder season really comes in clutch. We were able to cancel all our reservations, and because virtually every hotel in the country had vacancies, we just headed away from the wind.

We bet that the harsher weather would equal fewer tourists, so we hit some of the more popular spots along the famous Golden Circle—the most visited day-trip-style route outside of Reykjavik, if you don’t have time to drive the whole Ring Road around the island.

This portion of our trip included visiting the absolutely massive, Niagara-ish waterfall, Gullfoss. Sure, there were still plenty of tourists, and the wind stirred up the mist which made it feel like it was raining, but it’s a breathtaking thing to behold.

Nearby, there’s also Geysir, which—fun fact—is the geyser that gave all other geysers their name. It’s Icelandic for “to gush.” It’s only erupted twice in the last 25 years, but the adjacent Strokkur geyser goes off roughly every 10 minutes about 60 to 120 feet into the air, and still puts on a killer show. The whole area has a lot of cool geothermal features with a sort of Icelandic Yellowstone vibe, and you can hike all around the area to get a bunch of vantage points.

It’s also well worth visiting Thingvellir National Park , a stunning area where all the old clans of Iceland used to meet annually to decide the laws and policies for the upcoming year. It also has a lake, waterfalls, and a museum with tons of artifacts. This place is steeped in history (some of it tragic) and is a sacred place to Icelanders, so be on your best, most respectful behavior here.

Day 5: Surf Your Heart Out

Surfing the Icelandic coast was one bucket-list item I thought I’d never get to check off. In the weeks leading up to my trip, though, I started reading articles about how the best, most-consistent wave in the whole country was at risk of being demolished. The point at Þorlákshöfn (near Thorli Beach) is an incredible, peeling right-hander that just goes and goes like a good day at Malibu. Unlike Malibu, though, you’re likely to have four, not 400, other people in the lineup. It’s been a secret spot for ages, but the mayor of the town of Þorlákshöfn (and other city council members) seem intent on filling it in with boulders to make room for more warehouses around an expanded harbor. So the local surfers decided it’s better to tell the world than risk its destruction. Unfortunately, the town started filling it in already, despite not yet having environmental permits to alter the coastline, and that has abruptly cut off the end section of the wave. It’s tragic. Watch more on the save-the-wave initiative, here:

I reached out to Steinarr Lár, one of the surfers leading the fight to save the wave that is at the very center of Icelandic surf culture and community. He was gracious enough to lend me a board, a thick wetsuit, booties, and gloves, though if you want to experience surfing Iceland for yourself, link up with Arctic Surfers , which organizes surf tours (starting from $350 per day) and can provide you with everything you’ll need. They’re also deeply involved in activism surrounding the wave.

After suiting up in the parking lot, I scrambled over about 80 yards of slippery, seaweed-covered boulders, and then it was pure magic. The waves were between three and four feet tall, with a gentle paddle in, and they ran for nearly a full minute (apparently longer on bigger days). The locals were friendly, the wetsuit kept me plenty warm, and we all got enough waves to turn our arms to spaghetti.

It’s an incredible natural resource, and the idea of it being filled in to fill a few people’s pockets is frankly outrageous, in my opinion. Go surf it while you can and spread the word.

Days 6 and 7: Treat Yourself to a Northern Lights Wake-Up Call

After roughing it for several days, I decided to opt for some luxury. My friend Pétur, who works for a tourism company , says that whenever people’s top priority is seeing the Northern Lights, he books them at the Hotel Rangá (pronounced ron-cow, from $340 per night in shoulder season) because it’s sort of isolated on a big dark plane. Think: 360-degree views. It also has an observatory for stargazing when the lights aren’t visible, and there’s a button on your phone to order a wake-up call in the middle of the night should the lights pop up. It was easily the nicest place I stayed during my entire trip, and it’s a perfect base camp for all south-coast adventures.

Iceland’s version of upscale is different from what you might expect, coming from the U.S. If you have Four Seasons or Ritz expectations, you may be surprised to find that things are a bit more low-key here. Hotel Rangá is still very nice, but it’s more rustic and minimalist—at least in the more basic rooms. (The master suites are each decked out like a different continent and they went all-out.)

That said, its restaurant featured the tastiest food I ate the entire time, with exquisite, tender lamb, fish, and even reindeer carpaccio. They can also organize a candle-lit dinner in a grass-covered cave that used to be an ancient dwelling centuries ago. It’s a must-stay, and wouldn’t you know it, despite none being forecast, we managed to see the aurora on two of the nights we crashed there.

My phone rang around 11 P.M. and I was told the lights were visible. I had pre-arranged many layers of clothes and all my camera gear, just in case. So I threw it all on, rushed out the door, and wow, the sky was lit up with waving, green curtains. There’s a river and a pond behind the hotel, so I played with reflections in my photos, and hooted in joy as colorful ribbons raced over the roof of the hotel. Truly, there’s no other life experience like it.

Bonus: Get Off Road to Tackle Far-Flung Backcountry Adventures

For the last few days of my trip, I wanted to get into some of the places where my friend’s little AWD hatchback couldn’t take me, so I linked up with Southcoast Adventure (also recommended by my friend’s company). We did three expeditions in three days, and each of them got me way off the beaten path. Separately, from that, I also rode some Icelandic horses. Here’s how all of that went:

Take a Buggy Tour into the Wilderness

This is one of the best ways to really get out there away from everybody else. These “buggies” are two-seat 4X4 ATVs complete with roll cages, and we headed out to Emstrur, which was an all-day adventure on dirt roads, crossing a dozen small creeks. There were waterfalls, glaciers, and stunning rock formations throughout these mountains, and we didn’t see anybody else on the long road. (Full day tours start at roughly $660, but they also have one-hour and 2.5-hour options.)

Explore the Katla Ice Caves

The next day was my favorite expedition, a trek out to explore the Katla Ice Caves (from $205 per person). This is an ever-changing system of ice caves at the end of the Myrdalsjokull glacier. It included a massive ice-arch big enough to fly a decent sized plane through, as well as the chance to explore deep into otherworldly tunnels made of light blue ice, with streams and waterfalls flowing through them.

We even got to do a bit of ice climbing. You’ll be provided with crampons, so make sure you bring boots sturdy enough to support them (this was the one day my Atras weren’t quite up to the task). On the way back we visited three more jaw-dropping waterfalls, including Gljufrabui—which is hidden in a narrow slot canyon—and Seljalandsfoss, which you can hike behind for some stunning canyon views.

Cruise Around Landmannalaugar

The last day there was spent exploring in what is affectionately known in Iceland as a SuperJeep (starting around $300). It wasn’t actually a jeep at all, but a kitted out 4WD Mercedes Sprinter van. We went deep into the interior highlands of Landmannalaugar, exploring paths cut by glaciers and massive extinct craters. Of course, there were more waterfalls (just countless!), but my highlight was a gorgeous natural hot spring in the middle of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. It was the perfect way to relax at the end of a long trip.

Ride Iceland’s Famous Wild Horses

Of course, that isn’t the only way to relax. From Rangá you’re just a quick drive to the coast, or if you want something you truly can’t find anywhere else, go to Skeiðvellir Horse Farm (rides start around $85/person). Iceland’s horses have been isolated on the island for more than 1,000 years and they have evolved in unique ways, including developing stout bodies, luscious manes, and two specific gaits that only they can perform. They’re incredibly smooth to ride and it’s a fun way to see the grasslands of this stunning country.

Heliski Iceland’s Big Peaks March to June

There’s one more adventure I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention: heliskiing or snowboarding from the top of a peak to the shore of the Arctic Ocean. And you can do it with the boutique Viking Heliskiing operation. Based on the far north side of the island, this outfitter offers everything from three to six-day packages that include meals, rentals, avalanche gear, airport transfers, and luxurious accommodations at the Sigló Hotel . (Prices start at roughly $7,200 per person for the three-day package.)

Tragically, I didn’t get to do this myself (yet!), but from speaking with those who have (and feasting my eyes on photos and video), the terrain you’ll encounter up there is unlike anywhere else. The mountain surfaces tend to be smooth and steep, so they hold powder well and allow for massive, open-faced carves. You’re guaranteed 15,000 vertical feet a day (which is more than you get at most heliski operations), and some runs will take you all the way down to the beach. At night you can enjoy the hotel’s hot tubs, saunas, and the Northern Lights if your timing is right. The season starts in mid-March and goes until mid-June (where you may be able to ski as late as midnight). Dreamy, indeed.

The Bottom Line: I’m in Love with Off-Season Iceland

Perhaps you’ve gathered this much already, but Iceland blew my mind. And now, I really only want to come back during shoulder season. Yes, the weather was tough at times, and sure, not every road was accessible, but traveling during the shoulder season saved me money and paved the way for a better experience. Plus, you simply can’t beat having far fewer tourists around. So bundle up, plan ahead, and if you have to adapt a little? Well, Þetta reddast…

Brent Rose has been covering adventure and gear for Outside for more than a decade. When he’s not writing, you can find him surfing, snowboarding, hiking, or camping, usually somewhere in California. He’s also on Instagram at @brentdangerrose or his website at brentrose.com.

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Win a trip to Iceland

The Best Time to Visit Iceland

• Þórunn Arnaldsdóttir
• March 15, 2024

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When planning a visit to Iceland there are a few things that are good to be aware of. Contrary to what the name suggests, Iceland enjoys a rather mild climate throughout the year, thanks to the Gulf Stream that carries warm winds across the Atlantic. The reason for unpredictable weather and often stormy winters is that those warm Gulf Stream winds clash with cold gusts from the Arctic, creating volatile conditions. It also results in Southern Iceland sustaining a lot more rain than other parts of the country. These clashes are especially prominent during high winter, from late December to March, which is something to be aware of when planning a trip. Considering the elements, the prime time for visiting Iceland would be the official tourist season between May and September. These months guarantee pretty consistent warmth across the land, although it’s good to be aware that Reykjavík and the surrounding southern area will face more rainy days than the rest. Starting in May, this is also a time of the enchanting summer sun that never sets, creating long, leisurely days of bright skies that seem to stretch on forever. Travel is also easy in the summer, most roads are readily accessible, even in the treacherous highlands , and accommodation is widely available. The whole country feels alive and vibrant as locals use every opportunity to soak up the precious rays of sunshine.

Fall in Iceland, a Magical Time

As summer comes to an end, the fall season emerges with its cool, crisp evenings and the opportunity for seeing the Northern Lights , something millions of people come to see every year. Fall is a magical time in Iceland and rivals the summer season for the best time to visit since the weather stays rather mild and consistent from September through late November. Activities such as whale watching and Golden Circle tours are still in abundance and conditions to travel by car are usually very good. In fall, Icelanders start to settle in for the winter and the country takes on a cozy atmosphere that makes going out for a hearty meal and a nightcap in a dim lit bar feel like an adventure. The Northern Lights are often visible from Reykjavík when the skies are clear, and it’s easy to find good spots with minimal light pollution right in the city centre. Starting in December, Christmas decorations are put up all around Iceland that light up the long dark days of winter.

When it comes down to it, every season in Iceland offers a unique charm. With no shortages of activities and things to see all year round, the most important for visitors is to follow weather forecasts for their chosen times and to be prepared for swiftly changing conditions.   

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When's the Best Time of Year to Visit Iceland?

K nown as the land of fire and ice, Iceland beckons to adventure-seekers year-round. The best time of year to visit Iceland depends on your traveling style and the type of adventures you enjoy. For those in search of the northern lights, schedule your travel between September through April to maximize your chances of spotting this bucket list experience.

Although the coldest time of the year, winter months are ideal for exploring ice caves, warming your hands by bonfires, cultural and music festivals in Reykjavik and celebrating the magic of Christmas and New Year’s Eve.  

As spring arrives, migratory birds return including the always adorable puffins. Spring is also the perfect time for whale-watching tours. Of course, the summer months bring the midnight sun, summer solstice and sightseeing tourists from around the world. And the brief but beautiful autumn season yields a blanket of color and fewer tourists traveling the Golden Circle . Truthfully, the best time to travel to one of Europe’s most unusual destinations is really anytime!

Year-Round Iceland Experiences

As with many destinations, Iceland features several year-round experiences. Awe-inspiring waterfalls captivate tourists any time of year. Sure they may be partially frozen in winter months, but that’s just another type of beautiful! Hot springs and geothermal pools bubble year-round from the Blue Lagoon  to remote hot springs found throughout the Icelandic landscape.

Outdoor activities can be enjoyed in any season. The famed Icelandic horses are available year-round for horse riding adventures. And hikers also have plenty of year-round options. No matter when you visit Iceland, you can count on the Iceland weather to deliver a variety of experiences from sunny days to whipping winds to rain and back to sunny days. It’s unpredictable and packing layers is the key to managing whatever comes your way.

Road trips provide another year-round adventure option. Even in winter weather, driving the Golden Circle is possible. The Ring Road through the south coast of Iceland is also an option. But for those hoping to road trip through the entire country on the Ring Road, winter months can present some challenges due to potential road closures on mountain roads in Iceland’s more arctic regions. So if traveling the full distance of the Ring Road is on your bucket list, save that for the shoulder season or an Icelandic summer.

Iceland’s Peak Season

There’s no question that the months of June through August are Iceland’s peak season. During this popular time, you’ll be bumper-to-bumper with other tourists on road trips along the Golden Circle and other popular destinations. Of course, the summer months typically bring more sunny days. And, the midnight sun arrives for the summer solstice in June.

The advantages of traveling to Iceland during the peak tourist season include more hours of daylight which means more time for hikers to hit the trails along with more time for horse riding. In Iceland’s westfjords, you can enjoy all the benefits of traveling to Iceland in the summer months with fewer tourists as most focus their travel time on the Golden Circle and the south coast.

Also, as mentioned previously, summer months are best for a full road trip along the Ring Road as mountain roads are open and ready for exploration.

Visiting Iceland in the Winter Months

Despite its arctic reputation, Iceland’s winters are relatively mild. Temperatures average around 32 degrees. Of course, weather conditions in Iceland change continuously and the same is true for winter months. Winds can be strong and winter storms with snow and ice are possible. Hours of daylight shrink in the winter months to as low as four hours per day. But once winter solstice comes, daylight extends by a few minutes each day.

One big advantage of visiting in the winter months is the possibility of seeing the aurora borealis. Although the northern lights  can be seen from September through April, the darker days of winter provide more opportunities for you to experience this natural phenomenon.

The winter months also bring cultural events – especially in Reykjavik. Here you’ll have the opportunity to participate in the Reykjavik International Games and the Dark Music Days Music Festival. Also, during the old Norse month of Þorri, which runs from mid-January to mid-February, Icelanders toast to the old gods with a mid-winter feast known as Þorrablót.

If an ice cave tour falls on your list of adventure priorities, the winter months might be the best time to visit Iceland. However, as long as the ice caves haven’t melted, you can still squeeze this in through April.

Frozen waterfalls, magical Christmas villages and New Year’s Eve bonfires add to the lure of a winter visit to Iceland.

Shoulder Season in Iceland

There’s something to be said for visiting Iceland in shoulder season. Fewer tourists, lower costs and those year-round adventures noted previously all add to the appeal of an off-season trip. And, as luck would have it, Iceland has two shoulder seasons – spring and autumn.

As winter fades away, those choosing to visit Iceland in April are treated to the last days of the northern lights season. From April to May, migratory birds make their way to Iceland for nesting season. If seeing puffins ranks high on your list, this may be the best time to visit Iceland. Spring also kicks off whale-watching season as humpback, minke, orcas and even blue whales migrate north for the summer months. Book a whale-watching tour  and take in this wildlife wonder.

A visit to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula during the off-season means outdoor activities with fewer tourists. Glacier hiking is also possible in the shoulder season.

For that second shoulder season from September through October, the fall colors blanket the mossy landscape. Hikers can add berry picking to their experiences and the northern lights begin to dance across the skies again!

There’s so much wonder to Iceland with its fire and ice landscape and stunning natural beauty that no matter when you choose to visit Iceland, it’s a trip you’ll never forget. Of course, you can always return to check out another season. The Icelandic treasures will be waiting for you!

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Want to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026? An expert recommends booking travel now.

• 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years.
• Travelers worldwide will likely head to Spain, Iceland, and Greenland for the event.
• A hotel expert encouraged travelers to start planning and booking their trips now.

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

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While parts of Spain are likely to offer clearer skies, the eclipse's timing will be shorter and closer to the horizon, which means travelers will need to plan and track down a viewing location with unobstructed views of the western horizon, Space.com reported.

Regardless of the destination, according to the outlet, one bonus is that the strongest meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere will happen the following night, so travelers can pack two events into one trip.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

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Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

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By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S.? See the paths for the 2044 and 2045 events

By Cara Tabachnick

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 2:31 AM EDT / CBS News

Eclipse-watchers waited more than six years since the last time a total solar eclipse charted its way across the United States,  in 2017 . After the  April 8 event , prepare to wait a lot longer — the next chance won't be coming around any time soon.

Viewers in what's called " the path of totality " saw the moon completely block the sun  — an opportunity those in North America won't have again for 20-plus years. The next total solar eclipses in North America are not anticipated until 2044 and 2045.

"A total solar eclipse is one of the most spectacular things anyone can see in their lifetime," Virginia Tech astrophysicist Nahum Arav told CBS News. The eclipse "looks like a black hole in the sky," said Arav, who watched the paths of totality of eclipses in 1991 and 2017.

Monday's eclipse started around 11:07 a.m. PDT on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, and then moved into Texas . The eclipse's visibility tracked  through 15 states  — Oklahoma, Illinois , Ohio,  Pennsylvania , New York , Vermont ,  New Hampshire  and Maine , among them — before heading northward into Canada and then exiting North America.

Even with spotty weather in some states, millions of people from coast to coast saw a partial solar eclipse, in which the moon partially covers the sun. However, only those within the path of totality experienced the darkness of the total solar eclipse. 

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S. after the 2024 eclipse?

Solar eclipses happen about twice a year, said Arav. "Eclipses happen all over the Earth evenly," he told CBS News — but noted the timings when they occur are not regular. That means  eclipses can occur within just a few years, or every few decades, in North America.

Before the eclipse in 2017, the last total solar eclipse to cross North America was in 1979 . That was the first eclipse whose path of totality crossed the entire continent in 99 years. 

Even though eclipses may seem to occur randomly, scientists can pinpoint exactly when and where they will happen.

"There is no ambiguity, as we know exactly where it will land," said Arav. 

There will be eight total solar eclipses visible from North America in the 21st century, Arav said, with one occurring about every 12 years, on average.   

The next total solar eclipse to cross North America is predicted to occur on Aug. 23, 2044 , NASA said. However, the path of totality from this eclipse will only touch three states, according to  The Planetary Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to public interest in space.  

This next eclipse will mainly be observed in Canada, Arav said. 

Path of totality for the 2044 total solar eclipse

The 2044 eclipse will start in Greenland on Aug. 23, 2044, and will continue its path through Canada. 

The 2044 total solar eclipse will be short, mostly appearing in Canada. It will be visible from three states in the U.S.: Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.  

The path of totality will cross Williston and Dickinson, North Dakota, and Great Falls, Montana.

Path of totality for the 2045 total solar eclipse

The next solar eclipse that crosses a significant portion of the continental U.S. will be in 2045, said Arav. That year, a solar eclipse will darken skies in parts of the U.S., Haiti, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname and Brazil. 

In North America, the 2045 total eclipse will be visible in many states as it moves from coast to coast. The eclipse will start in California and move east to end in Florida, similar to 2017, Arav said. 

There will be numerous U.S. cities where eclipse watchers can view the total eclipse, including Reno, Nevada; Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Orlando, Florida.

Future solar eclipses in North America after 2045

Scientists have predicted eight total solar eclipses will appear in North America in the 21st century.

"Natural phenomena are like a Swiss clock," Arav said. "We know exactly when and where they will appear."

After the 2044 and 2045 total solar eclipses, the next total eclipses in North America will occur in 2078 and 2099.

May 11, 2078

This total solar eclipse on May 11, 2078 , will pass over the southern United States.

Cities include:

Atlanta, Georgia

New Orleans, Louisiana

Charlotte, North Carolina

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Sept. 14, 2099

This total solar eclipse on Sept. 14, 2099 , will cross a wide swath of the United States.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Chicago, Illinois

Columbus, Ohio

Fargo, North Dakota

Cara Tabachnick is a news editor and journalist at CBSNews.com. Cara began her career on the crime beat at Newsday. She has written for Marie Claire, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal. She reports on justice and human rights issues. Contact her at [email protected]

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